Gauteng still the epicentre of violent crime, says DA
The party also raised alarm over the province's rape statistics, which contributed 19.1% to the national figure.
Despite a slight drop in murder statistics, Gauteng remains South Africa's crime capital, leaving residents vulnerable and communities gripped by fear.
This is according to the DA in Gauteng on Tuesday, which has called for urgent, targeted action to tackle violent crime in the province.
Murder remains unacceptably high
According to the fourth-quarter South African Police Service (Saps) crime statistics for 2024-2025, Gauteng recorded 1 439 murders, a 10.8% decrease from 1 614 in the same period the previous year.
'Of of these murders 765 happened in public places using firearms. This shows that criminals are running rampant with little fear of being caught in the act,' said DA Gauteng shadow MEC for community safety Crezane Bosch.
The party also raised alarm over the province's rape statistics, which contributed 19.1% to the national figure, again placing Gauteng second.
Of particular concern was the report that seven rape cases were reported at educational facilities.
'It is worrying that most rapes in the province continue to happen in the residences of the perpetrator or victim (859), followed by public places (336),' Bosch noted.
ALSO READ: Gauteng government splashes R2.9 million on near-empty office used mainly for photocopies, says DA
Amapanyaza under fire
Bosch criticised premier Panyaza Lesufi's continued praise of his crime prevention initiative involving the deployment of crime wardens, also known as Amapanyaza.
'The truth is that Gauteng continues to fail to apply the basics of policing. Until this is fixed the province will remain a hub of crime,' she said.
ALSO READ: DA reaffirms 'longstanding' opposition to expropriation with nil compensation
DA outlines alternative crime strategy
As an alternative, the DA has proposed a more coordinated and technology-driven approach.
'A DA-led provincial government in Gauteng would prioritise collaboration between provinces to combat criminals who move across borders to evade detection and prosecution,' Bosch said.
She added that under a DA-led government, technology would be deployed in crime hotspots, particularly in townships rather than just central business districts.
The party would also expand police infrastructure.
'The DA would increase the number of police stations, fill police vacancies and revitalise police reservists,' she said.
NOW READ: Gauteng hospital security bill soars to R2.54bn amid patient care crisis
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