Klerksdorp Record, Potchefstroom - The North West Province has reported a significant 7.6% reduction in community-reported crimes for the fourth quarter of 2024/2025 (January to March 2025), encompassing 1 972 fewer cases compared to the same period last year.
All crime categories saw a decline, with contact crimes dropping by 7.7%, and incidents involving women and children also decreasing. Property-related crimes, including stock theft, saw a notable 9.8% reduction since 2021, with stock theft specifically down by 13.5% this quarter.
Despite these positive trends, pressing issues demand urgent attention. Domestic violence remains a significant crime generator, resulting in 1 988 cases, including 16 murders and 62 rapes. While general aggravated robbery decreased, carjackings increased by 1.2% and robberies at residential premises by 3.5%, particularly challenging hotspots like Rustenburg, Mooinooi, and Hartebeespoortdam.
Stock theft, though down provincially, saw a concerning 22.2% increase in Taung, making it the 7th most problematic area nationally. This is partly attributed to local complicity and porous border fences with Botswana. The Provincial Commissioner has vowed intensified interventions, including capacitating the Stock Theft Unit and strengthening rural safety initiatives.
Attempted murder on women rose by 37%, and 191 kidnapping cases were reported this quarter, with nine involving ransom demands. The police highlighted a 17.1% increase in crimes averted due to police action, including a 44.5% deterrence in sexual offences. Efforts against illicit mining continue to show success, with 242 cases opened and 1 831 arrests leading to 1 431 convictions.
Acting Provincial Commissioner, Genl Patrick Asaneng acknowledged the dedicated work of officers but stressed that the figures do not indicate an end to crime challenges, serving rather as a comparative analysis of reported incidents.
