The South African Police Service (SAPS) has released the third-quarter crime statistics for the 2024/2025 financial year, covering the period from October 1 to December 31, 2024. Speaking at the release event, Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, highlighted both the progress made and the challenges that remain, particularly in Mpumalanga.
“We are here to report on the crime statistics in accordance with our constitutional mandate,” said Mchunu. “This release reflects our commitment to public accountability and transparency, ensuring South Africans are informed about crime trends and our response strategies.”
Nationally, there has been a 9.8% decrease in murder cases, a 3.3% reduction in rape cases, and a decline in carjackings and robberies. However, Mpumalanga has seen a rise in rape cases and an alarming increase in attempted murders, especially among children. “While we have made progress in certain areas, the rise in attempted murders among children is deeply concerning,” Mchunu stated.
The province has also seen a reduction in stock theft, with a 4.5% decrease overall, offering some relief to the agricultural sector. Mchunu noted that combating rural crime remains a priority, particularly livestock theft in Mpumalanga.
The province continues to struggle with gender-based violence, with rape cases rising. Mchunu highlighted that KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and the Free State have seen the highest increases in rape, underscoring the need for intensified interventions in these areas.
The Minister credited community policing efforts and the Safer Festive Season campaign for the overall national crime reduction. “We need the active participation of communities, civil society, and the private sector to make a meaningful difference in crime prevention,” he said.
Mchunu also addressed the ongoing battle with organised crime, pointing to successful operations in gang hotspots, including the Western Cape, where 263 gang-related murders were recorded. “No one is above the law. We will continue to arrest criminals and bring them to justice,” he asserted.
Looking ahead, Mchunu reaffirmed the Ministry of Police’s commitment to improving safety across South Africa. “We will not relent in our efforts to build a safer, more secure nation,” he concluded.
