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Gauteng residents continue to live without much safety, as revealed in the recently released 2022/23 fourth quarterly report crime statistics, which show a distressing increase in various crime categories.

The statistics presented yesterday by Gauteng Police Commissioner, General Elias Mawela, expose the Provincial Government’s failure to effectively address the crime epidemic and ensure the safety and security of its residents.

The statistics show an increase of 2.6% in robberies at residential premises in Gauteng. This rise in home invasions and attacks on innocent citizens is unacceptable and reflects a lack of proactive measures by the Department of Community Safety to protect its residents.

A further 2.6% increase in carjacking cases was recorded, with the West Rand region ranking the highest in the province with a 44.4% increase.

The DA is highly concerned by the rise in kidnapping cases which have experienced a 17.1% increase. Every kidnapping incident is a horrifying ordeal for the victims and their families. The safety and well-being of residents, particularly women and children, are paramount.

A shocking 20.2% increase in burglary cases for non-residential premises demonstrates the inability of the provincial government to protect businesses and commercial spaces in Gauteng. These crimes not only cause financial losses but also hamper economic growth and job creation.

The reported increase of 5.6% in other serious crimes is extremely troubling and indicative of a systemic failure in law enforcement and crime prevention measures.

Sadly, yet again, the crime stats failed to include crimes against farm owners. Farm attacks significantly impact multiple levels, including individuals, families, communities, and the agricultural sector. The recently released 2022 Afriforum Farm Murder report revealed that Gauteng recorded the highest number of farm attacks in the country, accounting for 28% of the total.

The DA will continue to highlight how crime impacts Gauteng farmers.

As the DA, we express our highest condemnation over these statistics. Much more needs to be done to ensure the safety of Gauteng residents.

This can only be done through the DA’s Community Safety Bill, ensuring a proper advisory committee tackles crime throughout the province.

Issued by Crezane Bosch MPL - DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety