The Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, released the second-quarter crime statistics on November 25, 2024, emphasizing the urgent need for a “whole-of-society” approach to tackling crime.

These are crimes reported between 1 July and 30 September 2024.

Addressing challenges and progress since assuming office, he reflected on the country’s crime landscape and the collective responsibility to build safer communities.

Decline in Major Crimes

The Minister announced a 5.1% overall decline in the 17 community-reported serious crimes from July to September 2024.

Contact crimes dropped by 3%, with murder decreasing by 5.8%, sexual offences by 2.5%, and robbery with aggravating circumstances by 8.8%. Property-related crimes saw a 9.9% reduction.

However, concerning trends include a 2.2% rise in attempted murder, a 1% increase in assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), and an 18.5% surge in commercial crime.

Efforts Against Violent and Organized Crime

Mchunu highlighted strides in combating organized crime, citing successes such as arrests for drug trafficking, kidnappings, and illegal mining.

Operations across provinces have led to significant drug seizures and dismantling of criminal networks, including recovering firearms and explosives.

In Mpumalanga, authorities apprehended 95 Libyan nationals involved in illegal activities and arrested 19 undocumented Mozambican nationals linked to illegal mining.

Meanwhile, Gauteng police intercepted drugs worth millions, and in Limpopo, a clandestine lab producing crystal meth valued at R2 billion was shut down.

Tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

Acknowledging GBV as a national priority, the Minister stressed the need for specialized interventions and community collaboration.

He also praised law enforcement’s role in addressing cases of rape and domestic violence, with the judiciary delivering severe penalties, including life sentences for heinous crimes.

ALSO READ: 16 Days of Activism: A Call for Urgent Action Against GBV

Collaborative Initiatives

The Minister emphasized the importance of integrated efforts, including agreements with metropolitan municipalities, enhancements to border policing, and initiatives like Operation Shanela.

This operation led to over 262,000 arrests and significant seizures, reflecting the government’s intensified focus on crime prevention.

The Path Forward

Mchunu reiterated the need for economic growth to address the root causes of crime and highlighted plans to bolster resources and technology for the police.

He urged citizens, civil society, and government sectors to unite in fighting crime, emphasizing that safety is a shared responsibility.

“Our goal is clear: to reduce crime and build safer communities. Together, we can achieve the peace and security every South African deserves,” Mchunu concluded.