Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has announced a 9.8% decrease in murder cases across South Africa, along with a 3.3% reduction in rape incidents and a decline in carjackings and robberies at both residential and non-residential premises.
Presenting the third-quarter crime statistics in Pretoria, covering the period from October 1 to December 31, 2024, Mchunu highlighted that all provinces recorded a drop in murder cases, marking a significant step in crime reduction efforts. However, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal remain the largest contributors to the national murder rate, accounting for 25.0% and 21.4%, respectively. The Eastern Cape follows at 18.9%, with the Western Cape at 17.4%.
Mchunu acknowledged that Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Western Cape continue to pose the greatest challenge to law enforcement, with authorities planning to intensify efforts in these provinces in the coming months.
He expressed optimism over the overall decline in crime compared to the same period in 2023, noting not only the drop in murder and rape cases but also a 3.2% decrease in attempted sexual offences and a decline in carjackings and robberies.