Cape Town — Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has delivered a grim assessment of South Africa’s crime situation, revealing that over 6,000 people died between April and June 2024.
In his statement, Mchunu highlighted the dire crime rates and the immense challenges facing law enforcement in the country.
“These numbers tell a sobering story, reflecting the severity of the challenges we face. These numbers represent more than just figures on a page; they reflect the lived realities of our citizens—their fears, their losses, and their hopes for a safer tomorrow,” the minister said.
“The data is a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. We are confronted with a crisis that threatens the safety of our communities and undermines the stability of our nation.”
#sapsHQ [READ] Speech for the Minister of Police, Mr Senzo Mchunu, at the release of the quarterly crime statistics, in Cape Town, on 30 August 2024. #CrimeStats NP https://t.co/f53BWnXnQx pic.twitter.com/06vpPVejJB
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) August 30, 2024
The crime stats report revealed that 6,198 people died between April and June 2024, averaging over 2,000 murders per month, or 500 per week.
Sexual offences totaled 11,566, including more than 9,300 rapes and 1,469 sexual assault cases.
Mchunu noted that four provinces – Western Cape, North West, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo – reported increases in crime.
The top 30 police stations with the highest crime rates were also located in these provinces, as well as in Gauteng.
[WATCH] Police Minister Senzo Mchunu paints a bleak picture in the fight against crime as he releases quarterly statistics. Mchunu says crimes that are on the increase are murder, rape, hijacking and extortion. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/F17GCsDJMT
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) August 30, 2024
The minister outlined the priorities for the 7th administration, emphasising a commitment to reducing crime, restoring public safety, eradicating corruption within the South African Police Service (SAPS), and upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct among officers.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of investing in technology to combat the country’s high crime rates.
Mchunu also highlighted the success of recent operations, including drug busts and the rescue of kidnapped individuals, noting that targeted responses have alleviated challenges in high-crime communities. He assured South Africans that the police would continue their efforts until everyone felt safe.
“To the people of South Africa, I assure you: we are unwavering in our commitment to fight crime and restore safety. We will not rest until every South African can walk the streets without fear. To our police officers, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your dedication, bravery, and commitment are the bedrock of our efforts,” he said.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is presenting South Africa’s quarterly crime statistics today in Cape Town. The report offers insights into recent crime trends and public safety. “These results highlight the urgent need for action by us and all law enforcers.” #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/5ExDDyNQqR
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) August 30, 2024
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Picture: X/@SAPoliceService
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
