The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

It is a matter of concern that the overall crime rate has increased by 0.3%
after consistent decreases in the last four years. That all the provinces
have seen increases in serious crimes is particularly worrying. As our 2008
National Victims of Crime Survey has shown, the perceptions of un-safety
among South Africans are prevalent. The fact that there has been an increase
in the trio crimes (House Robbery, Business Robbery and Carjacking) will
unfortunately further fuel these perceptions.


An upward curve in Aggravated Robbery, however small, is a matter of
national concern. It is for this reason that the rise by just under 1%,
after a decrease of 7,4% in the previous financial year, should be taken
seriously.


Citizens expect their homes, businesses and vehicles to be the safest of
places. That we have seen a rise in house robbery (by 27.3%), business
robbery (by 41.1%), carjacking (by 5%) and truck hijacking (by 15.4%), is
sure to intensify anxiety within communities.

The reality that one's house and business constantly faces the danger of
being broken into is indeed a source of restlessness. It is for this reason
that we are particularly concerned about the rise in residential burglary
(by 2%) and
non-residential burglary (by 9.2%).


It is disconcerting that provinces that have in the past had fairly low
aggravated robbery rates (Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Free State),
have this year shown substantial increases of between 15% and 18%.


However, the ISS is pleased that the overall murder rate continues its
downward trend with a 3.4% decrease this year and a general decline since
1994. Furthermore, it is encouraging that the rate of common robbery,
assault GBH and common assault continue to decline. This represents some
improvement towards the cohesion of South Africa's social fabric.



Particular attention should be paid to the factors behind the general
decline in serious crime in the Western Cape.

What is clear from the latest statistics is the need for more concerted
efforts and sophisticated strategies by government, the private sector and
civil society in dealing with the priority crimes of house robbery, business
robbery and carjackings. This will require that equal attention be paid to
both prevention and response strategies.