The Western Cape Police have registered the most arrests for gender-based violence, femicide, sexual offences, and crimes against children in the country in the last year.

Between April 2024 and March 2025, over 4,700 suspects were arrested for such crimes, more than any other province.

As South Africa marks Women’s Month, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is highlighting the progress made in protecting women, children, and other vulnerable groups.

From April 2024 to March 2025, the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) units arrested a total of 22,219 suspects and secured 2,941 convictions.

Of those convicted, 604 offenders received life sentences, 350 were sentenced to 20 years or more, 735 received sentences of 10–19 years, and 1,391 were sentenced to between one and nine years.

Major General Mmantsheke Lekhele, who leads the unit, has been praised for her leadership in tackling gender-based crimes. The team is further supported by Forensic Social Workers (FSWs) who assist by conducting forensic interviews with child victims and helping courts reach fair, informed decisions.

Western Cape, Gauteng (4,278 arrests), and KwaZulu-Natal (3,802 arrests) recorded the highest number of arrests. The National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, commended officers for their dedication.

 “Through resilience, unwavering dedication, and high-quality investigations, our men and women in blue continue to ensure that sexual offenders are brought to justice and removed from society.”

Masemola says every conviction brings us one step closer to a safer South Africa for all women and girl children.