The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) recorded an increase in calls relating to motor vehicle accidents this weekend, but it was the increase in pedestrian accidents that is cause for concern.
The City’s PECC logged 1 493 incidents between Friday 27 May and Sunday 29 May.
The bulk of the calls were for medical assistance and by-law transgressions, but 112 assault incidents – an increase of 25 calls compared to the previous weekend, 27 accidental injury trauma cases, 22 domestic violence incidents, 55 motor vehicle accidents – up nine from the previous weekend, and 22 pedestrian accidents compared to 10 the previous weekend.
“Our PECC experienced an increase in calls related to motor vehicle accidents this weekend, but even more concerning was the increase in pedestrian accidents. As we head into winter, it is important for both motorists and pedestrians to go back to basics and help save lives. If you’re driving in poor weather conditions, slow down, make sure your wipers are working correctly and that your tyres and brakes are up to the task.
“To pedestrians, try and wear colourful or reflective clothing when its dark. If there is no pavement, walk as close to the edge of the road, facing oncoming traffic and please make use of pedestrian crossings or footbridges. It’s also important for both motorists and pedestrians to stay off the roads if they’re under the influence of alcohol,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
The PECC is contactable on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline.
In general enforcement efforts, over the past week, the City’s three agencies arrested 296 suspects for various criminal offences and issued 60 144 fines.
Law Enforcement officers conducted 484 enforcement operations, during which they arrested 107 suspects and issued 2 947 fines. Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) officers accounted for 93 of the total arrests.
Their Metro Police counterparts arrested 150 suspects, including 20 for driving under the influence of alcohol and 70 for the possession of drugs. Other arrests included transgressions such as contact crimes, domestic violence and firearm-related crimes. Officers also issued 3 285 fines.
Cape Town Traffic officers issued 53 912 fines, impounded 138 public transport vehicles and executed 1 328 warrants of arrest for outstanding fines and contempt of court.
They also arrested 34 motorists for driving under the influence, and five others for reckless and negligent driving.
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