‘We are winning the fight against crime’
Although the latest statistics show an increase in Polokwane, crime fighters on the ground are of the opinion that a somewhat positive picture is more accurate.
POLOKWANE – The crime stats of April to June compared to that of the same period last year show a rise in most crimes, but the lockdown levels of 2020 need to be considered in this analysis. Various community associations involved in the fight against crime add that the underreporting of cases must also be considered.
The spokesperson for the Central Business District Business Association (CBDBA), Ali Salman, says although this is not reflected in the crime statistics, they have noted a definite decrease in crime.
“I think sometimes people get assistance from us and then opt not to open cases. This might have an effect on why the statistics don’t reflect our efforts. We will, however continue to fight crime in the city and we will intensify our efforts. We urge residents to report crime including attempted crimes in order to make the statistics as accurate as possible.”
Police Minister Bheki Cele released the crime statistics for the period April through June:
• Contact crimes totaled 202 reported cases of which six include murder, 13 sexual offences, four attempted murder, 20 assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, 36 common assault, 33 common robbery and 71 robbery with aggravating circumstances.
• From the 13 sexual offence cases eight were of rape, four of sexual assault and one of contact sexual offence.
• A total of 72 burglaries at non-residential premises were reported while 122 burglaries occurred at residential premises.
• Cases reported of vehicle being stolen are 27 while 143 cases were reported on cases of theft out of motor vehicle.
• Shoplifting cases were set at 95.
• Drug-related crimes totaled 277 cases.
