Gauteng Still South Africa’s Crime Hotspot Despite Drop in Murders, Says DA

Gauteng may have recorded fewer murders this year, but it remains the epicentre of violent crime in South Africa, according to the Democratic Alliance (DA). The party is calling for urgent and smarter solutions to tackle the province’s deep-rooted safety crisis.

In the latest police crime statistics for Q4 of the 2024/25 financial year, Gauteng logged 1,439 murders—a 10.8% decrease from the previous year’s figure of 1,614. While this slight dip offers a glimmer of hope, DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety, Crezane Bosch, argues the overall situation is still dire.

“Of these murders, 765 occurred in public places and involved firearms. This tells us criminals are acting without fear, and law enforcement is failing to deter them,” Bosch said.

Rape Cases Still Alarmingly High

Even more concerning is the province’s rape statistics, which account for 19.1% of all rape cases nationally, placing Gauteng second in the country. A disturbing seven rape cases were reported at educational institutions, and the majority of cases took place in private residences, either those of the victim or the perpetrator.

“This trend highlights how unsafe even familiar spaces have become for many residents,” Bosch said.

Amapanyaza Under Fire

Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s crime wardens initiative, also known as Amapanyaza, came under fire from the DA, with Bosch arguing that the strategy is more style than substance.

“Despite the fanfare around Amapanyaza, basic policing is still neglected in Gauteng. Without addressing foundational issues, the province will continue to be a haven for criminals,” she said.

DA’s Vision for Safer Communities

In response to the ongoing crisis, the DA has proposed a technology-driven, collaborative crime-fighting strategy. This includes:

• Improved coordination between provinces to stop criminals crossing borders undetected

• Deploying surveillance and crime-prevention tech in townships and crime hotspots, not just in city centres

• Expanding police infrastructure, including the number of police stations and filling long-standing vacancies

• Revitalising police reservist programmes to boost manpower on the ground

Bosch emphasized that safety can’t be achieved through short-term solutions and PR exercises alone.

“Gauteng needs a proactive, well-resourced police service that can track, intercept, and deter crime where it’s most prevalent—especially in our underserved communities,” she added.

As crime remains a key concern for many in the province, pressure is mounting on the Gauteng government to move beyond slogans and start delivering real, tangible results.

{Source: The Citizen}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com