22 Sep 2009: Media Statement: Response to the Release of the National Crime Statistics - 2008/9

PRESS STATEMENT

Issued by the Institute for Security Studies in Response to the Release of the National Crime Statistics - 2008/09

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.

Media Enquiries: Johan Burger 012 346 9500. ([email protected])

Issued by the Institute for Security Studies

Pretoria

22 September 2009