CAPE TOWN - Police have recorded a general increase in crime with concerning murder, rape, hijacking and kidnapping numbers.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu said there is an urgent need for action.
Four of the nine provinces recorded increases in murder rates.
The top 30 stations for murder are in the Western Cape, Gauteng, KZN and Eastern Cape.
The Western Cape recorded the highest increase in the murder rate.
"We are confronted with a crisis that threatens the safety of our communities and undermines the stability of our nation," Mchunu said.
"Contact crimes, in particular, are wreaking havoc and instilling fear. This is unacceptable, and we must confront this challenge with unwavering resolve and strategic precision."