‘Quart’-er of weekly arrests alcohol-related

01 December 2025

Not only are drunk driving arrests heading upwards in recent weeks, but cases of interpersonal violence also increased this past month-end weekend.

In the past week, the City’s enforcement agencies made 387 arrests, up from 355 the week before.

Drunk driving arrests accounted for a quarter (98) of those taken into custody.

This weekend, the Public Emergency Communication Centre also recorded a 50% increase in cases of assault.

‘Alcohol rivals comparison when it comes to being the thief of joy. And even though we are entering what is meant to be a joyous time of year, the statistics already show that this is unlikely to be the case for some. There are so many alternatives to drunk driving. This year, give yourself the gift of a stress-free time by leaving the car keys in the hands of a designated driver, or leaving the drinking to those who will not be driving. Also, do not attempt to bring alcohol into our public spaces and save yourself the embarrassment of having it confiscated, and receiving a fine to boot,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

Metro Police officers made 125 arrests for the week, including 35 for driving under the influence of alcohol, and issued 3 177 fines.
Law Enforcement officers made 201 arrests, of which four were for driving under the influence of alcohol, and issued 8 445 notices.
On the roads, Traffic Officers recorded 47 083 offences, impounded 230 public transport vehicles and executed 2 347 warrants of arrest.
Of the 61 suspects arrested, 59 were for driving under the influence of alcohol, one for reckless and negligent driving and one for other charges.

The Public Emergency Communication Centre logged 1 688 incidents. The top categories were medical, by-laws, policing, fire and traffic-related incidents.

Emergency call takers also noted a 50% increase in cases of assault from 87 the previous weekend to 132; 52 incidents of domestic violence and 55 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents.

Caption 1: A breathalyser reading result (file)
Caption 2: An integrated roadblock (file)

End

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office