Cape Town's enforcement agencies confiscate over 4,500 litres of alcohol during festive season crackdown
Some of the alcohol that was confiscated by City of Cape Town law enforcement officials.
Image: City of Cape Town
In a robust response to escalating concerns surrounding public safety during the festive season, the City of Cape Town's enforcement agencies have confiscated more than 4 500 litres of alcohol this December, with over half of the total seizures occurring in just the past week. In their intensified efforts, officials made 264 arrests and issued an astounding 52,520 fines for various violations, reflecting their commitment to maintaining law and order throughout this high-risk period.
Between 1 and 21 December, the City’s liquor pound accepted 1,942.74 litres of alcohol, equivalent to 4,201 units or bottles. Just days later, by 28 December, this figure surged to 4 634.69 litres, representing 9,838 total units. The City by-laws empower all City enforcement agencies to confiscate alcohol, a responsibility managed by Law Enforcement officers.
"In addition to the significant alcohol confiscations, enforcement efforts during the past week yielded 155 arrests and the issuance of 5,999 fines. Among the notable achievements, Law Enforcement Advancement Planning (LEAP) officers recovered a total of four firearms, reinforcing the urgency of their operations," the City said in a statement.
"Meanwhile, Metro Police officers arrested 52 suspects and issued 3,166 fines related to traffic violations and by-law offences. Their operations also led to the recovery of a pistol, a revolver, an imitation firearm, and the seizure of various quantities of alcohol and illegal drugs."
The stolen firearm that was recovered.
Image: City of Cape Town
In a remarkable incident on Monday, 29 December, officers successfully recovered a stolen vehicle in Macassar after acting on a credible tip, resulting in the arrest of a 42-year-old suspect.
"Traffic officers have been equally active, recording 43, 355 offences on the roads, impounding 156 public transport vehicles, and executing 951 warrants of arrest. They made 57 arrests—with 50 for drunk driving alone, further underscoring the dangers posed by intoxicated drivers during the festive celebrations.
The stolen vehicle that was recovered.
Image: City of Cape Town
"The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre has also been stretched, dispatching assistance for 1,850 incidents over the past weekend. Medical incidents accounted for a staggering 40% of all calls. In addition, the centre logged 119 fires and noted an increase in noise complaints, with 279 reports received. Help was also rendered for 29 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents. The grim reality of urban life continues, with 132 assault cases, 59 domestic violence reports, and 19 cases of self-harm logged recently.
"The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any emergencies or suspicious activities to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre at 021 480 7700. When reporting, citizens are advised to provide detailed information including the time, exact address, and a brief description to assist law enforcement in their efforts."