City of Cape Town Link

January arrest totals head to nearly 1 400

The City’s enforcement agencies arrested 404 suspects in the past week and issued 97 141 fines. Not only is this the highest rate of arrests so far this year, it means that the total arrests over the past four weeks is at 1 358 – and January is not over yet.

<figure class="figure-credits right"><img class="responsive" alt="placeholder" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/WOPS%2026126%201.png" style="width:736px;" /><figcaption> © City of Cape Town </figcaption> </figure>‘The steep increase in the number of arrests is a feather in the cap for our enforcement agencies, but also a reminder once more of the payday phenomenon – particularly given that drunk driving arrests in the past week accounted for nearly 21 percent of all those who ended up behind bars. Road accidents also saw a notable uptick for the first time in several weeks. I really do wish more people could start connecting the dots and see how improved personal accountability and better decision-making can ease the load on enforcement and emergency services, and also improve public safety,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security,’ Alderman JP Smith.During weekly patrols, Metro Police Officers made 146 arrests, including 22 for driving under the influence, and issued 3 923 traffic and by-law fines. <figure class="figure-credits left"><img class="responsive" alt="placeholder" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/WOPS%2026126.png" style="width:597px;" /><figcaption> © City of Cape Town </figcaption> </figure>Particular successes included the arrest of a 46-year-old suspect on Thursday, 22 January, for the illegal possession of a revolver and five rounds of ammunition.On Tuesday, 20 January, officers arrested a 32-year-old suspect in South Street, Bellville, for the illegal possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition. Law Enforcement Officers made 176 arrests and issued 11 502 notices. Traffic Officers recorded 82 arrests – 62 for driving under the influence of alcohol, recorded 81 716 offences, impounded 202 public transport vehicles and executed 1 519 warrants of arrest. The Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 579 calls for assistance this past weekend. Of the calls received, 79 were physical assault related cases. Call agents also had to deal with 57 motor vehicle accidents. This included accidents where pedestrians were involved. The public is reminded to report emergencies or any suspicious and/or criminal activities by phoning the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700. It’s important that the caller provide detailed information such as the time, exact address and a short description. This will assist enforcement services to respond swiftly. End

2026-01-25T22:00:00Z

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