Crime stats: 7 710 murders last quarter

The recently released crime stats compare October to December 2022 with the same period for 2023.

The four police stations in the paper’s footprint are Brixton, Fairland, Linden and Sophiatown for which the statistics show a general increase in reported crimes.

Higher murder rates in Sophiatown may be looked at with the inclusion of areas like Westbury which do not fall under the Northcliff Melville Times footprint.

Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele said when the statistics were released, “During this period, a total of 7 710 people were murdered (nationally).”

“As we unpack the third quarter crime statistics, for the past two consecutive terms, we had noted a reduction in the number of murders reported. It is disturbing and concerning that the number of people murdered during this period, increased by 2.1% leading to 155 more people murdered as compared to the same period. The provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Free State must be singled out and commended for being able to register a reduction in the number of people murdered during this period.”

He said that, “Kidnappings for ransom has become a lucrative commodity for organised crime in South Africa. The SAPS continues in its efforts to identify and arrest groupings linked to kidnappings especially where ransom demands are being made. More than 300 suspects linked to these kidnappings have been arrested in the last two years.”

When talking of CPFs, Cele noted, “Strengthening and revitalising Community policing relations remains a top priority in the fight against crime. To demonstrate our commitment to strengthening these relations, we have allocated R70 million to ensure proper functioning of these structures. It is quite encouraging that 94 % of the CPF budget has been spent on resources such as vehicles to ensure maximum cooperation and interaction with the community.”

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