Premier & Minister deeply concerned over latest crime statistics, commit to collaborative policing MoU
30 August 2024
The Western Cape Government (WCG) notes with deep concern the crime statistics for the fourth quarter of the 2023/24 financial year and the first quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, which were released earlier today by the Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu.
The figures are disappointing and are a clear indication that fresh approaches to combatting crime will have to be explored and implemented with urgency.
Premier Alan Winde said that the numbers are deeply concerning and must make us redouble our efforts. He stated, "These statistics, as well as the findings of the latest Victims of Crime Survey, reflect the reality so many of our residents have to endure daily. This is not lost on us. The figures must shock us into decisive action, where collaboration and partnerships, not cheap politicking, guide us in how best to combat crime in all its forms. While we analyse and digest the data, we must also commit to urgently implementing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which the WCG, City of Cape Town (CoCT) and national government signed today in Cape Town. This is an important occasion signalling a commitment from all of us to work closely together to tackle the scourge of crime. Our residents look to us for action and hope. We must not fail them."
With the Western Cape accounting for seven out of the ten policing precincts with the highest murder rate in the country, and increases in the murder rate in Western Cape precincts such as Nyanga (65% increase), Philippi East (76,5% increase) and Khayelitsha (44% increase), a lot of work, dedication and planning will be required. Overall, the Western Cape’s murder rate increased by 27,5% in quarter 4 of 2023/24 by 21,2% in quarter 1 of 2024/25.