JOHANNESBURG - The latest crime statistics indicate a decrease in serious crimes between July and September this year according to the latest crime stats released by the police ministry on Monday.
Despite these positive results, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says more still needs to be done as attempted murder, assault and commercial crimes continue to surge.
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He said, "From the 1st of July to the 30th of September, 2024, the 17 community-reported serious crimes showed an overall decline of 5.1%."
"Specifically, contact crime decreased by 3.0%, property-related crime saw a reduction of 9.9%, and other serious crime decreased by 3.4%." "Focusing on contact crime, the statistics indicate that murder decreased by 5,8%, sexual offenses by 2.5%, and robbery with aggravating circumstances by 8,8%."
Crime statistics from July and September 2024
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu said, "Additionally, rape decreased by 3.1%, while robbery at residential premises and non-residential premises decreased by 1.3% and 21.1%, respectively."
"Among the 17 community-reported crime categories monitored, the only increases were observed in attempted murder, assault GBH and commercial crime, which rose by 2.2%, 1.0% and 18.5% respectively."
"Despite these gains, the persistence of high crime rates underscores the urgency of doubling our efforts in law enforcement, prevention, and community involvement."