Cape Town’s long weekend came to a dismal close for 46 revellers as metro police enforced strict patrols leading to a spike in drunk driving arrests, reports Cape {town} Etc.
During ongoing operations throughout the weekend, law enforcement agencies, including the Traffic Service and Metro Police Departments, reported a staggering 47 910 fines issued and 261 suspects arrested, highlighting significant public safety concerns on the roads.
Specifically on Saturday, 14 June 2025, the Camera Response Unit of the Metro Police deployed in the Cape Town CBD led to the arrest of four individuals aged between 31 and 42 for driving under the influence of alcohol.
These arrests were part of a broader crackdown where metro police recorded 68 arrests overall, alongside 3 265 fines issued for various offences. Among these, 17 arrests were specifically attributed to driving under the influence, accompanied by 38 for illegal drug possession, along with various property, contact-related crimes, and firearm-related offences.
Complementing the metro police’s efforts, law enforcement counterparts reported a total of 163 arrests, complemented by 6 685 fines issued. Traffic officers alone issued a staggering 37 960 fines and detained 30 motorists, with 29 arrests stemming from drunk driving offences.
In a bid to enhance public transport safety, 162 public transport vehicles were impounded, and 821 warrants of arrest were executed throughout the week.
The disturbing trend of increased drunk driving incidents came into sharper focus on Sunday, 15 June. The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 639 calls, including 49 related to physical assaults and 31 domestic violence incidents. These figures underscore the urgent need for continuous vigilance and robust law enforcement in safeguarding public safety.
Mayoral Safety and Security Alderman JP Smith has expressed deep concern regarding the high number of arrests for drunk driving.
‘The number of motorists arrested for driving under the influence is a concern and remains a challenge on the roads. Drunk drivers pose a serious threat to a safe road environment and increase the risk of fatal accidents.’
‘Our officers will continue to patrol the roads and arrest those who think they are above the law. We should all use the roads responsibly and respect other road users,’ Smith stated.
Residents are reminded to stay alert and report any criminal activity by contacting the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre, reachable on 021 480 7700 from cellphones and 107 from landlines.
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