Staff did however note increases in domestic violence cases, which doubled from 20 to 41, and motor vehicle and pedestrian/vehicle accidents increased from 36 last weekend, to 82.

‘There was a very sharp increase in motor vehicle accidents reported to our PECC over the weekend. It’s likely the overall number is higher, because not all incidents might necessarily be routed via this particular channel. And, while the causes could be manifold, what we do know is that we had fairly consistent rainfall for the largest part of the weekend. I want to remind road users that adherence to the rules of the road is critical at all times, but even more so when the environmental conditions add an additional layer of risk. With the coming winter rains, we need to ensure that tyres, brakes and wipers are in good working condition, slow down, increase following distances, ensure that headlights are on to increase our visibility to other road users, and it goes without saying – do not drink and drive, or use any type of substances if you are going to be behind the wheel,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith. 

GENERAL ENFORCEMENT

During general enforcement patrols  in the past week, Metro Police officers arrested 54 suspects which included 34 for the illegal possession and/or sale of drugs. Officers also issued 3 805 fines for traffic and by-law offences.

On Sunday, 23 April 2023, Metro Police officers patrolling along Jakes Gerwel Drive came across an accident scene and saw that the drivers were having a verbal altercation. 

Upon interviewing the drivers, officers noticed a strong smell of alcohol from one of the drivers. The 26-year-old was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and detained at Lentegeur South African Police Service (SAPS).

On the same day, officers conducted crime prevention patrols in the Gordons Bay, Lwandle and Strand areas, which led to the arrest of nine suspects between the ages of 20 and 50 for the illegal possession of drugs and dangerous weapons. 

The City’s Law Enforcement Department officers conducted 604 enforcement operations during weekly patrols, resulting in 252 arrests and 3 706 fines. 

On the roads, Cape Town Traffic officers issued 56 911 fines and arrested 47 suspects of which 35 were for driving under the influence of alcohol and four for reckless and negligent driving. The other eight arrests were for  stolen vehicle, false documentation and assault of an officer offence.  

Officers also executed 1 627 warrants of arrest and impounded 272 public transport vehicles.  

End