CoCT's neighbourhood safety officer initiative seize drugs in Bellville

The City of Cape Town's new neighbourhood safety officer (NSO) initiative is adding to the city’s law enforcement presence in communities since being launched in September.

Over the weekend, NSOs seized 130 sachets of tik and over R1,000 in cash while patrolling in Bellville.

Together with law enforcement officers, they also issued over 8,000 fines and made 150 arrests.

The city’s MMC for safety and security, JP Smith, said the newly established neighbourhood safety officers operation is finding its feet.

"Our enforcement services do good work removing drugs and guns from our streets, but we need to see that energy matched by the criminal justice system in the prosecution and conviction of those responsible."

Meanwhile, traffic officers impounded 250 public transport vehicles and effected almost 2,000 warrants of arrest over the weekend.

Smith added that a total of 20 people were also arrested for driving under the influence and related charges.

"Out traffic services also successfully coordinated the plans to manage traffic flow for a number of events for what was a very busy weekend in Cape Town. We appreciate the effort and also extend our gratitude to the public for their cooperation and their patience."

Article by Camray Clarke.