While there has been a decline in sexual crimes and murder, there has been an increase in attempted murder cases. This was revealed during the quarterly crime statistics announcement by Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu today.

SECOND QUATER

Mchunu said attempted murder incidents increased by 2.2%, followed by assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), which increased by 1% between July and September 2024. Mchunu expressed concern over commercial crimes, which have skyrocketed to 18.5%. "The persistence of high crime rates underscores the urgency of doubling our efforts in law enforcement, prevention and community involvement. We are battling the growing menace of organised crime, and we are also grappling with economic crimes that threaten the foundations of our economy and the livelihoods of millions of South Africans, including extortion and criminality on critical infrastructure," he said.

WORK IN PROGRESS

He indicated that sexual offences decreased by 2.5% and robbery with aggravating circumstances decreased by 8.8%. "Additionally, rape decreased by 3.1%, while robbery at residential premises and non-residential premises decreased by 1.3% and 21.1%, respectively. Mchunu acknowledged the crime efforts of SAPS through their successes. "Mpumalanga police arrested 95 Libyan nationals for immigration violations and suspected illegal military training. Investigations led to the discovery of mandrax and drug manufacturing tools worth R2.6 million and the arrest of six people involved in a high-profile kidnapping, the suspects were sought for and arrested along with crystal meth worth R300 million, which was confiscated. In Limpopo, Groblersdal, a clandestine drug lab was discovered, with crystal meth estimated at R 2 billion recovered. Four suspects, including the farm owner and two Mexican nationals, were arrested. In another intelligence-driven operation, five suspects were arrested and the discovery of a drug manufacturing laboratory containing mandrax and equipment worth R3.3 million. Throughout July, arrests included drug mules smuggling narcotics valued in millions, showcasing the SAPS's determination in combating drug trafficking," he said.