Law enforcement confiscates thousands of litres of alcohol

The City’s Law Enforcement Liquor Unit has confiscated nearly 7 500 bottles of alcohol since the beginning of December.

In terms of the City’s by-laws, the introduction and consumption of alcohol on beaches and other public spaces is prohibited. Anyone caught doing so, has their alcohol confiscated and receives a R500 fine. They can reclaim the impounded liquor after paying the fine and a R650 impoundment release fee.

Between 1 and 27 December 2019, the Liquor enforcement unit has booked in 7 428 bottles of alcohol, amounting to 4 127,93 litres.

During the same period last year, officers booked in 6 790 bottles amounting to 4 218,83 litres.

‘The statistics tell us that people continue to show flagrant disregard for the law, their own safety and the safety of others, by insisting on bringing alcohol into public spaces. Let’s not forget that the weather has impacted a number of priority days thus far this December, so the amount of alcohol confiscated is absolutely shocking.

‘What’s made the situation even worse is the number of incidents where guilty parties actually had the temerity to attack our staff in the execution of their duties. Alcohol abuse is one of the key challenges to enforcement agencies, and it is amplified over the festive season. And far too many people seem to think it is acceptable until they lose a loved one or end up behind bars because of it. When will we learn?’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

On the streets, the City’s Metro Police officers arrested three motorists for drunken driving and 15 others on various other charges including possession of drugs, fraud, assault, robbery and resisting arrest. Officers also issued 837 fines for various by-law and traffic offences.

The City’s Random Breath Testing Unit arrested 19 more motorists for driving under the influence during checkpoints around the city in the last week.

The various enforcement agencies will be on high alert as new year’s celebrations pick up the pace, with a focus on managing traffic, enforcing by-laws and general crime prevention duties.

‘We urge the public to keep cool heads as they usher in the new year. We want everyone to have a safe and fun-filled time, so make sure to avoid drinking and driving or any other anti-social behaviour; do not drink in public spaces and refrain from setting off fireworks. The latter is only allowed where a permit for a fireworks display has been applied for and granted.

‘New Year’s Day is no different. Very windy conditions have been forecast, but it’ll be dry and so we expect the beaches to be far busier than Boxing Day. Again, our staff will be out and about, managing traffic congestion and keeping an eye on people to behave. We urge the public to do their bit and ensure a good start to the new year,’ added Alderman Smith.

Source: City Of Cape Town

Recent Posts