City cracks down on public drinking

DOWN THE DRAIN

- STAFF REPORTER

NEARLY 3000 litres of alcohol were destroyed at the City of Cape Town's Ndabeni Pound yesterday.

The destruction comes as alcohol consumption in public areas remains one of the most persistent challenges facing enforcement and emergency services, particularly during December, despite repeated warnings and clear regulations prohibiting drinking in public spaces.

Figures released by the City show that in just the first 11 days of December, the liquor pound received 1814 units of confiscated alcohol, amounting to just under 740 litres.

City officials expect these numbers to escalate sharply in the coming weeks as beach attendance and public gatherings increase.

Mayoral Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, said the volumes being destroyed reflect an annual pattern that places significant strain on City resources.