More than 6,000 bottles of alcohol seized at Cape Town beaches

On New Year’s Day, a tense situation unfolded in Cape Town as South African Police Service (SAPS) officers were attacked at Fishhoek Beach while trying to arrest a disruptive individual.

Responding swiftly, the City of Cape Town deployed multiple safety units, leading to the arrest of nine individuals, including two women.

This incident highlights the City’s firm commitment to maintaining the safety and enjoyment of its beaches, which remain a popular destination for holidaymakers across South Africa.

Alderman JP Smith, Safety and Security Mayoral Committee Member, emphasised the importance of upholding national laws, particularly the prohibition of alcohol on beaches.

“We have supported our SAPS with an integrated approach,” Smith said in a Facebook post.

“By setting up vehicle check points at entry to prominent beaches, officers are searching vehicles while also performing foot patrols along the beachfront areas.”

Proactive measures for safer beaches

Technology has also played a pivotal role in the City’s crackdown. High-definition CCTV cameras and aerial drones enable real-time monitoring of beachgoers, the City said.

This helps officers identify individuals attempting to conceal alcohol in inventive ways—such as burying it in the sand or disguising it in cold drink bottles.

Record alcohol confiscations

Cape Town’s enforcement efforts at beaches have already led to the confiscation of over 6 000 bottles of alcohol.

Offenders are issued receipts that specify the type and quantity of the confiscated items, along with a fine.

Once the fine is settled, they can reclaim their seized alcohol from a designated pound by presenting the receipt.

“There will be many ‘chancers’ who already have bad memories of their alcohol having been confiscated on the beach,” Smith added.

“If that happens to be their only unpleasant memory, then we have succeeded.”