CoCT raises concerns over high amount of drug related arrests

The City of Cape Town’s Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith has raised concerns over the high amount of drug related arrests.

Metro Police arrested 12 suspects between the ages of 23 and 53 on Wednesday, for drug related offences. Officers conducted enforcement operations in Gordons Bay and Strand areas, whereby two of the arrests included resisting arrest, riotous behaviour, defeating the ends of justice and Crimen Injuria. The suspects were detained at Gordons Bay and Strand South African Police Service(SAPS).

On the same day, officers arrested four suspects for possession of drugs in the Eersteriver and Macassar area.

Smith said further patrols at night led to the arrest of three more suspects  for drug related offences in the Kleinvlei, Eersteriver area.

The suspects aged between 29 and 34 were arrested and detained at Macassar and Kleinvlei SAPS, respectively.

The mayco member says the amount of drugs confiscated is worrisome.

‘’The amount of drug related arrests seems to be on the increase and officers will continue to prioritise these serious offences. The selling of drugs often leads to more serious crimes. Dealing in drugs destroys innocent lives and families and those using drugs often become part of criminal activities. Arresting suspects and confiscating drugs will hopefully reduce further criminal activities and stop cash flow to gangs and criminals.’’

‘’Our officers will increase presence and visibility in communities based on information received. We would like to request members of the public to report illegal activities to officers so that they can respond and stop a crime before it happens,’’ added Smith.

 

PICTURE - Wayne McKay: Mayco member JP Smith at Bush Radio

Done By: Mitchum George