While KZN’s crime statistics – released last week for the period April to June 2023 – show a decline in some areas there is no cause for celebration. The reality is that they remain horrifically high with KZN also South Africa’s murder and rape capital. KZN also contributed a staggering 25.4% of murder cases countrywide. During the three-month period, 17 people were murdered and 21 people raped daily, on average.
The reality is that no one is safe in our province, particularly our most vulnerable women and children. This is further evidenced by 651 cases of kidnappings in just 90 days, up by an alarming 76%. Not even our SAPS officers are safe, with six members tragically killed during the same period. The vulnerability of citizens on our roads is also not limited to carnage. They are also at the mercy of criminals with a 44.4% increase in cash-in-transit robbery and a 57.9% rise in truck hijackings.
The DA has made numerous proposals to KZN’s Community Safety MEC, Sipho Hlomuka when it comes to improved safety measures – to no avail. These include more visible policing within our communities, proper, ongoing training for SAPS officers and fully functioning CCV cameras, particularly at hotspot areas.
KZN’s people can no longer live in fear. The 2024 elections will present them with the opportunity to change the trajectory of our province and vote for a government that takes crime seriously.
SHARON HOOSEN, MPL
DA KZN Spokesperson on Community Safety and Liaison
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