'There has been a marked increase in the number of drunk driving arrests week on week, as well as motor vehicle accidents. We've also seen marginal increases in assault cases reported to our public emergency communication centre this past weekend. Unfortunately, these statistics are not surprising, and it's likely the overall picture is far bleaker, as not all incidents are necessarily reported through the same channels, or reported at all. The payday weekend phenomenon is sadly very well established and once again underscores the devastating role that irresponsible alcohol use plays in our society. With the month-end weekend and a number of long weekends looming, I want to renew my call not only on our motorists, but the public in general to take responsibility for their actions and to not put their lives or that of others around them, on the line,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

The City's Law Enforcement Department made 219 arrests in the last week and issued 3 904 fines.

Their Metro Police counterparts made 37 arrests and issued 2 708 fines for traffic and by-law infringements.

In one of the latest successes on Sunday, 26 March 2023, officers recovered drugs with an estimated street value of R16 000 in Heideveld after receiving a tip-off about drugs being kept at a premises in the area.