PRETORIA

The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa welcomed the IHS Crime Index report which has found that crime in South Africa is at its lowest level in 15 years. The report, which was released yesterday further stated that crime rates dropped 38% since its peak during the 2002/2003 financial year.

The report is divided into two indices: the violent crime index and the property crime index.  Property crime involves acts against one’s property, such as burglary and arson.  Violent crime refers to crimes such as murder and rape.
It stated, quote: ‘The decline in overall crime in South Africa has been echoed in both indices, reporting a steady decline since 2002. Violent crime is at the lowest level seen in a decade, declining some 40% between 2002 and 2013.  Property crime experienced a decrease of 24% over the same period. The declining crime rates reflect the overall improvement of conditions in South Africa.’

The Minister said these findings vindicate government’s recently-released national crime statistics, which also focused on longitudinal downward trends.  He added that whilst many local analysts were skeptical in their analysis of the statistics, it is gratifying that an internationally-recognized, credible and globally-respected institution has now affirmed the fact that crime is decreasing in South Africa.
“Since 1994, we have been making steady progress in the fight against crime.  This period has been characterized by growing unity in action against crime, a period focused on improving life conditions for all, especially the poor.  As part of our approach in reducing crime, we further recognized that the task of keeping our country safe cannot be achieved if we operate in silos.  That is why we adopted a multi-pronged approach in the fight against crime, underpinned by the involvement communities, business, civic organisations, labour movements and many other stakeholders.”

“For this reason, almost on a weekly basis as the police leadership we are out there meeting with communities, not because there are problems, but as part of ensuring that we entrench this community-policing philosophy.  Such community interactions also help us to tap onto the collective wisdom of citizens in order to enhance existing crime prevention and combatting programmes whilst jointly seeking solutions around crime,” added Minister Mthethwa.
“The IHS Crime Index serves as a great motivation to many hardworking police men and women, who against all odds, still continue to serve with dedication.We want to say whatever the challenges of the moment, nothing will deter these collective efforts between police and many law-abiding citizens in the quest towards crime reduction.  However improbable it may sound to the skeptics, success is guaranteed.However long the night the dawn will break,” concluded the Minister.

For enquiries, please contact:

Zweli Mnisi, Spokesperson to the Minister of Police 082 045 4024

Ministry of Police
Mobile: +27 (0)82 045 4024