Another busy week in Cape Town, with numerous arrests that took place for drunk and reckless driving this past weekend increasing in trauma-related calls to the Public Emergency Communication Centre.
The City’s Traffic Service made 90 arrests 33 of those during illegal street racing operations over the weekend.
Among those arrested were 69 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol, 19 for reckless and negligent driving, one for participating in an illegal street race, and one for possession of a fraudulent driver’s license.
Officers also impounded 133 public transport vehicles, executed 1 289 warrants of arrest, and recorded 66 647 traffic violations.
The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith said.
‘The number of drunk drivers arrested has increased from last week’s 36. It’s the first weekend of the new month and could be attributed to the end of the month partying; however, that is no excuse to get behind the wheel inebriated as these drivers found out. For them, it was a trip to jail, but for others, it could be a ticket to the hospital or the morgue. As more people take to the road with the sunnier weather, I want to encourage drivers to be responsible. Don’t drink and drive. It’s not worth your life or that of your loved ones.’
In total, incidents reported to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre increased, with a notable increase in the assault category:
An overall number of incidents from 23 – 25 September was 1 870 while between 30 September – 2 October was 2 024 and assault (physical and other) between 23 – 25 September was 172 and from 30 September – 2 October was 207, motor vehicle accidents are 49 in the same weekend and 58. With pedestrian/vehicle accidents rising to 15 from 23 – 25 September and 17 from 30 September – 2 October.
‘It is disconcerting that the violence people inflict on each other shows the biggest jump. This includes physical and sexual assault, as well as incidents where weapons are used to injure or kill. The violence in our communities has far reaching effects and damages even those not involved in the incidents. Residents live in fear and experience depression, anxiety, and post traumatic stress,’ added Alderman Smith
Furthermore, 110 arrests were made for various offences including possession of drugs, firearms, imitation firearms, and other dangerous weapons. With about 2 916 notices for various by-law offences leading to drunk driving.
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