Suspected firebug caught on camera

19 January 2026

The City’s Traffic Services arrested a suspected arsonist this weekend, after he was detected via CCTV. The suspect was one of 375 arrests made by the City’s enforcement agencies in the past week. Read more below:  

Just after midnight on Saturday, 17 January, the Traffic Communications Centre, in conjunction with the Freeway Management System (FMS) cameras, identified a person setting alight vegetation on the M5 northbound, before Berkeley Road.

Through a coordinated effort between the Traffic Communications dispatcher, the FMS operator, and the Highway Patrol, the suspect was arrested by Highway Patrol officers and detained at Maitland SAPS.

A case of arson was subsequently opened.

'We shared statistics just a few days ago about the pressure our services have absorbed to deal with the increase in vegetation and residential fires. To have individuals who deliberately set out to cause more pain and potential harm in this manner, is incredibly frustrating. We had numerous fires along that M5 stretch in the last week, and hopefully the investigation includes a thorough assessment of all these incidents. This arrest and the manner in which it was made is also a timely reminder of just how useful technology is in the fight against crime, particularly when utilised properly', said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

In general enforcement efforts, Traffic Officers recorded 73 225 offences, impounded 143 public transport vehicles and executed 1 410 warrants of arrest.

Officers made 63 arrests, of which 50 were for driving under the influence of alcohol, five for reckless and negligent driving and eight for various other offences.

Metro Police officers made 110 arrests. They also issued 3 577 traffic and by-law fines, and recovered various quantities of drugs, one pistol and 432 crayfish tails.

Law Enforcement Officers made 202 arrests and issued 6 877 notices.

The Public Emergency Communication Centre received 1 211 calls for assistance this past weekend. This included 429 calls for medical assistance, 46 cases of assault, 29 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents, 171 noise complaints and 23 reports of domestic violence.

The public is reminded to please report emergencies or any suspicious and/or criminal activities to the City's Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700, and to provide detailed information such as the time, exact address and a short description.

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office