An analysis of crime statistics over the past three years reveals that South Africa consistently experiences a rise in crime during the first quarter of each year. Research suggests that economic pressures following the festive season, heightened social tensions, and the return to routine activities like work and school contribute to this seasonal surge.
Read moreArmed robberies are a harsh reality for many businesses in South Africa. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) crime statistics for 2023, there were 35,705 cases of robbery with aggravating circumstances reported. This crime category is a major contributor to the overall violence and fear of crime that affects businesses and communities alike.
Read moreThe latest social disorganisation report shows that as we approach the festive season, South Africa continues to face a complex landscape of social tensions. Key areas of concern include the recently resolved long-distance taxi strike in KwaZulu-Natal, ongoing electricity challenges with Eskom's proposed 36.15% tariff increase, and rising community frustrations over crime, infrastructure, and service delivery.
Read moreThe South African Police Service (SAPS) has released the crime statistics for Quarter 2 (July to September) of the 2024/2025 period, comparing them to previous years. The numbers reveal some notable shifts in both property and contact crimes, showing both decreases and increases in various categories.
Read moreThe annual 16 Days of Activism Campaign against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) has kicked off, shining a spotlight on one of South Africa’s most pressing crises. This international campaign, running from the 25th of November until December 10, 2024, seeks to raise awareness about the prevalent impact of GBVF and inspire action to combat it.
Read moreAn overview of the South African Police Service (SAPS) crime statistics for the 2023/2024 financial year has been released, shedding light on trends across various categories of crime. While some crimes have shown a decline, others, particularly violent crimes, continue to rise, painting a mixed picture of safety across the country.
Read moreSouth Africa’s weather patterns have become increasingly unpredictable, with snow blanketing the Eastern Cape in November and the N3 highway facing dangerous closures and even a fatality from heavy snowfall in September. Amid these unusual weather shifts, the focus often falls on personal safety and planning for unexpected conditions, yet few consider how these changes might also impact crime patterns.
Read moreDuring the second quarter of 2024, South Africa saw commercial crime, assaults, drug-related offenses, and theft dominate the crime statistics. Although the total number of incidents in some categories showed a slight decline compared to earlier in the year, overall crime levels remained high.
Read moreSince the 1990s, the relationship between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and private security has been complex. As crime rates rose, so did the demand for private security services, driven by a perception that the police alone couldn’t meet the public's needs. Historically, this led to a divide between SAPS and private security, which remained until recently.
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