Crime in the Western Cape has increased in the past year

Loyiso Langeni
19 September 2013

The much anticipated annual crime statistics for 2012/2013 financial year were released by Minister of Police Nathi Mthethwa and National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega. 

Minister Mthethwa revealed that fewer crimes were committed over the past year.  

Western Cape MEC of Community Safety Dan Plato said he is concerned about the increase in the number of murders, attempted murder, drug crimes and house robberies in the province.

Ministerial Spokesperson Greg Wagner said MEC Plato said that they are aware that alcohol abuse plays a major role in  the increase levels of violence and murder.

The police need to close down the thousands of illegal shebeens as a matter of urgency. The MEC has also repeatedly called on the South African police to introduce specialised Policing Unit to deal with gangs and drugs in the Western Cape.

Meanwhile MEC Plato said the province has no operational control over the Criminal Justice System which is a national skill. The province has implemented various programmes and interventions aimed at improving the longer term socio-economic conditions of residents. 

Ministerial Spokesperson Greg Wagner said these include the passing of the community safety act.

The transversal violence prevention policy which was launched this week as well as partnership with various religious organisations to provide youth safety interventions and with FET Colleges to provide school leaving youth in high crime areas with tertiary education opportunities.