Dagga bust is a step towards safer communities in Cape Town

The City of Cape Town said it continues to battle the devastating impact of drugs on communities and said that the arrest of drug dealers has reduced crime.

"The devastating impact of drugs on our communities continues long after we’ve taken the dealers off the streets," Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said.

"We have made a significant impact in reducing crime and taking drugs off the streets, in spite of our limited resources and powers."

Metro Police officers have seized over four kilograms of dagga in Fisantekraal, adding to a series of successful drug busts that continue to improve safety in the Western Cape.

The weekend haul, which included dagga-filled bags, cigarettes, and bankies, resulted in the arrest of the homeowner on Saturday, August 9.

The bust is the latest in a string of enforcement actions that saw the City’s enforcement services arrest 241 suspects in the past week alone. This strong focus on curbing drug-related crime is part of a broader, sustained effort by law enforcement to make communities safer.

The City’s hands-on approach is a key factor in the Western Cape’s efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking.

In a single week, Metro Police made 42 arrests, while Law Enforcement officers made 166 arrests. The Traffic Services also conducted 54,707 offences and made 34 arrests for serious transgressions, including drunk and reckless driving.

While acknowledging that some suspects are often back on the streets soon after their initial arrest, Smith said the City was committed to staying vigilant.

"We have proven that we are ready to do more," he said, reinforcing the City's dedication to continuing its fight against illicit dealings.

Besides the dagga bust, the Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) recorded 60 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents, along with 78 assault cases and 44 domestic violence incidents. 

Cape Times