CoCT's Smith says attacks on staff becoming 'far too commonplace' after motorist becomes aggressive with traffic cop

The City of Cape Town says threats and attacks on staff members have become far too commonplace.
 
It has become aware of a video clip circulating on social media, involving a city traffic officer and an aggressive motorist.
 
Earlier this week, the official stopped a man driving recklessly in the vicinity of the N1 outbound and the Durban Road bridge. 
 
The driver failed to comply with the officer's instructions and became aggressive, resulting in SAPS and law enforcement officers being called to help.
 
The man was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless and negligent driving and assault, and was detained at Bellville police station.
 
Mayoral committee member for safety and security, JP Smith: "The city condemns this incident in the strongest terms. Threats and attacks on our staff have become far too commonplace and the perpetrators ought to be ashamed of themselves. Just this week, our portfolio committee discussed the rise of misinformation on social media about city staff and how this impacts negatively on their safety."
 
Smith said he hopes the suspect is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, to help send the message that such actions will not be tolerated.

"Our staff work incredibly hard and under trying circumstances to ensure law and order prevail and to protect communities. For them to be disrespected and targeted in this manner is completely unacceptable."