The City of Cape Town said alcohol consumption in public spaces remains one of the biggest headaches for enforcement and emergency services, particularly over the festive season. In the first 11 days of December 2025, the liquor pound received 1 814 units of confiscated alcohol, amounting to just under 740 litres.
‘’It’s a clear indication – once more – of what we are
faced with each and every year. These totals will balloon over the coming
weeks, and next year, we’ll dispose of it all. The City takes a lot of flak for
the alcohol destruction, but the outrage around the destruction that
irresponsible alcohol use causes is far more muted. We can significantly reduce
incidents of interpersonal violence, drownings, road accidents and pressure on
our trauma centres and enforcement services by making different choices, yet
for many people this is simply too big an ask,’’ said JP Smith, Mayoral
Committee Member for Safety and Security.
COURTESY: City of Cape TownThe City’s Coastal by-law addresses the issue of alcohol on
beaches, and signage is posted at all beaches and public amenities, outlining
what visitors are able to do. Anyone found in possession of alcohol, or
consuming alcohol, will have their goods confiscated, in line with the City’s
impoundment policy. They will also be fined R500. The alcohol can be reclaimed,
upon payment of the fine and the impoundment release fee, which is R835. The
impoundment policy also guides the disposal of unclaimed alcohol.
‘’Disposal is the easiest option, as a legal opinion
several years ago highlighted a number of complexities to the sale of impounded
liquor, including the need for a liquor licence and that it could create the
perception that confiscations are profit-driven and not in the interest of
public safety,’’ said Smith.
‘’As we head into the peak festive season, I appeal once
more to the public to leave the alcohol at home and to keep our public spaces
alcohol-free, for their own safety, but also that of others,’’ he added.
Done By: Elona Sibunzi
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