Alcohol abuse among young people remains a concern for Camps Bay police after more than 1 300 units of alcohol were confiscated during two weekends of matric valedictory celebrations at Clifton Fourth Beach and Camps Bay main beach.

Matric learners traditionally gather at Cape Town’s beaches for valedictory, also known as “ditch day”, parties to mark the end of the school term before their final exams.

The celebrations took place over two weekends on Saturday 3 October and Saturday 10 October, with more than 3 000 young people flocking to the beach.

Camps Bay Police Station commander Cpt Liaan Janse van Rensburg said officers were working with law enforcement, metro police and traffic services to maintain law and order.

He said on Saturday 3 October, officers confiscated 1 150 units of alcohol while over 190 units were seized on 10 October.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), alcohol consumption contributes to 2.6 million deaths each year globally as well as to disabilities and poor health of millions of people. Harmful use of alcohol is responsible for 4.7% of the global burden of disease.

The WHO said alcohol has considerable toxic effects on the digestive and cardiovascular systems. Alcoholic beverages are classified as carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and increase the risk of several cancer types.

According to Janse van Rensburg, several incidents were reported during the celebrations on 3 October.

These included the assault of a law enforcement officer and driving under the influence of alcohol.

In a press statement, Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith said each year alcohol abuse remains the biggest contributor leading to violent behaviour.

He warned that swimming under the influence of alcohol is dangerous, urging young people to know their limits, respect the ocean and make choices that protect their future.

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