Common assault, often linked to gender-based violence (GBV), has emerged as the most reported crime across Midrand’s residential complexes and estates between January and March 2026.

This was revealed by Midrand SAPS Sector 3 manager Sergeant Ngwako Matlhatlha during a complex forum meeting held on April 18 at the Midrand Police Station.

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The meeting marked the forum’s second sitting since its launch on March 18, focusing on reviewing crime statistics, strengthening collaboration between police and complexes, and expanding forum leadership.

Although attendance was lower than expected, with the session coinciding with the City of Johannesburg’s Region A integrated development plan (IDP) consultations, discussions on crime trends and intervention strategies continued. The election of additional committee members was postponed to the next meeting, with a new date yet to be confirmed.

Matlhatlha stressed the importance of participation from trustees, complex managers, and homeowners’ associations (HOAs). “We need all trustees, complex managers, and HOAs present, so that when we engage on these crime statistics, they are aware and can help us raise awareness among residents about what is happening in their communities.”

Police data presented at the meeting showed a wide range of offences reported between January and March, including common assault, theft, burglary at residential premises, malicious damage to property, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, attempted rape, child abuse, drug-related offences, rape, and theft of and from motor vehicles, among others.

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Hilton Heights Complex accounted for 7.7% of reported cases, with incidents largely involving common assault and attempted rape. Villa Montego also recorded multiple cases of common assault. “These two complexes are mostly dealing with common assaults, which are often a result of gender-based violence.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Midrand SAPS Sector 3 manager Sgt Ngwako Matlhatlha breaks down the latest crime stats affecting complexes, with common assault topping the list. Video: Comfort Makhanya #Midrand #SAPS ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Several other complexes, including Bel Aire, Birchfield, Carswald Luxury Apartments, Kikuyu Estate, Kyalami Hills Estate, Morganwood, Protea Estate, Silkwood, Sumatra Estate, Terrace View, The Woods Apartments, Villa D’ Alegria, Waterfall Crescent, and The Precinct Indawo, to name a few, each contributed smaller portions to the overall crime statistics.

A key concern raised during the meeting was restricted police access to some complexes. “Sometimes it becomes difficult for police to enter because certain complexes do not allow access. These are the kinds of issues we need to address together.”

While police are permitted to enter private property under specific legal conditions, access protocols in gated communities can delay response times, a challenge the forum aims to resolve through improved co-operation.

Police urged residents, estate trustees, and security teams to work more closely with law enforcement, particularly in raising awareness around GBV and improving reporting.

Community members are encouraged to attend the next complex forum meeting, where leadership elections and further crime prevention strategies will be discussed.

Grab a copy of the Midrand Reporter to read more.

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