Lentswe, Klerksdorp - The national crime statistics were released last week, reflecting the horrific daily experiences of South Africans.
Even though there is still a downward trend in crime, South Africans are still exposed to unacceptable levels of violent crimes, said Heloise Denner of the Freedom Front Plus. Ian Cameron, DA Spokesperson on Police, said if you ask anyone across communities whether they feel safer, their answer would be no.
From October to the end of 2024:
- 6 953 people were murdered [76 daily], including 7 666 attempted murder cases,
- 54 337 people were assaulted (GBH) [591 daily], including 16 023 women and 2 164 children,
- 11 803 people were victims of raped [128 daily],
- 12 447 common robberies occurred [135 daily], as well as 36 446 commercial crimes [396 daily].
Despite year-on-year statistical decreases, including a 9.8% decrease in murder, 6% decrease in common robbery, as well as a 6.6% decrease in assault, crime remains a normalised ill in South Africa.
Commenting further, Cameron said the continued increases in commercial crimes (over 8% over the last year) remain of serious concern as the SAPS struggles to come to grips with extortion and related crimes.
One of his suggestions to help keep South Africans safe is to bring SAPS closer to communities. Also to strengthen crime prevention and keep SAPS accountable within their ranks.
Denner said gender based violence should get more attention. “While the latest statistics are showing a downward trend, South Africans must be careful not to become complacent with crime.’’
The DA said they will continue to advocate for common-sense policies to keep all South Africans safe.
