Early Wednesday, 23 November 2022, the Minister of Police Services announced the third quarter of crime statistics in South Africa.
“The quarter two crime statistics showed that crimes against women remained high compared to the same period in 2021 (during lockdown)” reported News24.
Statistics show that over 13 000 women were victims of assault. 10 000 cases of rape were reported during this timeframe.
An increase in kidnappings was detected, Cele announced an increment in kidnappings nationally with over 4 000 counts reported to police stations between July and September 2022.
“Out of 286 rape convictions, 46 rapists were sentenced to life behind bars”.
Rape, robbery, and carjacking were reported to be the top three motives resulting in kidnapping cases across the country. Over 6 000 carjackings were reported to police stations during the third quarter, while the Free State and Limpopo recorded a decrease in carjackings “a 24% increase was observed nationally”.
Fighting gender-based violence continues to be the country’s top priority as well as the safety of women and children.
In just six months from April to September, 558 children were killed in South Africa. Cele mentioned the recent cases of child mutilation and killings of children before reaching their teenage years during the address.
Kwa-Zulu Natal was reported with the highest number of murder cases followed by Gauteng and Western Cape.
“The SAPS is investigating 250 dockets of multiple murders, with 578 victims. This includes the mass shooting at the Mdlalose tavern in Soweto, where 17 people were killed in July in a single shooting incident”
Furthermore, Cele announced the deaths of over 22 police officers who were killed during July- September 2022. He stated that the number of deceased officers during these months is only 2 officers less compared to last year around the same time.
“It is on this note that this Ministry will never stop calling on SAPS members to defend themselves at all times from ruthless criminals whenever they are under attack”, said Cele.
Bheki Cele urged the citizens to play their part in ensuring the safety of their communities by working together with the police officers.
Police visibility during the festive season will be implemented to protect South Africans from criminals.
