City enforcement agencies have significantly stepped up efforts this festive season, with alcohol confiscations more than doubling in just one week. Since the start of December, more than 4 500 litres of alcohol have been seized, with over half of that amount confiscated in the past seven days alone.
Between 1 and 21 December, the City’s liquor pound received 1 942,74 litres of alcohol, amounting to more than 4 200 units or bottles. By 28 December, that figure had risen sharply to 4 634,69 litres, representing nearly 9 900 units or bottles.
The liquor pound is managed by Law Enforcement, but all City enforcement agencies are authorised to confiscate alcohol in terms of municipal by-laws.
Stronger enforcement across the city
In broader enforcement operations over the past week, Law Enforcement Officers made 155 arrests and issued nearly 6 000 fines for various offences. LEAP officers also recovered at least four firearms during their deployments.
Metro Police officers made 52 arrests and issued more than 3 100 notices for traffic and by-law infringements. During these operations, officers recovered a pistol, a revolver and an imitation firearm, and impounded quantities of alcohol and drugs.
In one of the latest operational successes, officers recovered a stolen vehicle in Macassar on Monday morning, 29 December, following a tip-off from the public. A 42-year-old suspect was arrested.
Road safety remains a priority
Traffic Officers recorded more than 43 000 offences on the city’s roads over the past week. They impounded 156 public transport vehicles and executed 951 warrants of arrest.
A total of 57 arrests were made, including 50 for driving under the influence, three for reckless and negligent driving, and four for various other charges.
Emergency services under pressure but responding
The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre dispatched assistance to 1 850 incidents over the past weekend. Medical emergencies accounted for 40% of all calls received.
The centre also logged 119 fire incidents, a notable increase in requests for assistance related to noise nuisances, with 279 cases recorded. Emergency services were dispatched to 29 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents.
In addition, the centre recorded 132 assault cases, 59 domestic violence incidents and 19 cases of self-harm, highlighting the continued pressure on emergency and safety services during the festive period.
Residents are reminded to report emergencies or any suspicious or criminal activity to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700, and to provide clear details such as the time, exact location and a brief description to assist responding officers.
