Rise in violent crime a signal for communities to mobilise

30 May 2023

The quarterly crime statistics for January to March 2023 was today released by Bheki Cele, the Minister of Police. Unsurprisingly, the statistics paint a bleak picture of the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) ability to fulfil its mandate.

According to the civil rights organisation AfriForum the police have again proven that it cannot successfully accomplish its most basic responsibilities which are to prevent, combat and investigate crime, to maintain public order, to protect and secure the inhabitants of the Republic and their property, and to uphold and enforce the law.

“Although it is very concerning that there has yet again been an increase in violent crimes such as murder and other contact crimes, it is not surprising given the SAPS’ track record of mismanagement, corruption and political interference,” says Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s spokesperson for Community Safety.

“As long as you have a police minister whose main focus is flocking to crime scenes for photo opportunities, while police officers in some instances have to buy their own ammunition, how do you expect officers to maintain high levels of motivation,” continues Broodryk.

According to AfriForum the only way to help protect communities under these circumstances is to set up neighbourhood watches and other safety structures. AfriForum has 165 neighbourhood and farm watch structures countrywide. Volunteers receive training and assistance in various disciplines regarding community safety.

“It has become very clear to us that in areas where civilian safety structures are active, crime decreases,” concludes Broodryk.

Issued by Jacques Broodryk, Spokesperson: Community Safety, AfriForum, 30 May 2023