Police Ministry Investigates AfriForum’s Claims of Farm Murder Underreporting

The Ministry of Police has confirmed that it has received a list of farm attacks submitted by AfriForum, following Minister Senzo Mchunu’s request for evidence regarding claims that official crime statistics underreport farm murders—particularly those involving farm owners.

AfriForum has long expressed concerns that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is underreporting farm murders, raising questions about rural safety measures. The civil rights organisation suggested that the discrepancy in reported numbers might indicate either a lack of awareness or a deliberate downplaying of the crisis by authorities.

According to the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kamogelo Mogotsi, preliminary findings suggest that only one farm owner murder listed by AfriForum appears in the official SAPS crime statistics for the third quarter of 2024/2025.

“Preliminary findings indicate that, of the incidents listed, only one farm owner murder is reflected in the official crime statistics for the third quarter, which aligns with the reported figure of one farm owner murder during this period,” Mogotsi stated.

The Ministry is currently verifying the additional farm murder claims submitted by AfriForum, with further updates expected once the full verification process is complete.

Previously, AfriForum disputed the SAPS figures, presenting evidence of eight farm murders between October and December 2024, while SAPS reported only one during the same period.

The organisation argues that this gap in reporting demonstrates that rural safety concerns are being neglected, despite the ongoing threat to farmers and farm workers.

On February 21, 2025, Minister Mchunu released the third-quarter crime statistics, indicating a decline in overall crime. According to the report, only one farm murder was recorded during the period, with 12 farm-related murders in total out of the 6,953 homicides reported.

Despite the conflicting reports, the SAPS maintains that it remains committed to transparency and accuracy in crime reporting.

“The SAPS will continue to engage with all interested parties to enhance crime prevention efforts and ensure that statistical reporting remains accurate and credible,” Mogotsi said.

The Ministry has encouraged collaboration with civil society organisations to ensure crime data remains factual and reliable.

“The SAPS remains steadfast in its commitment to combating violent crime and improving the safety of all South Africans, particularly those in rural and farming communities. Law enforcement agencies continue to address crimes in all sectors, ensuring that rural safety is taken seriously,” Mogotsi added.

As the verification process continues, SAPS will work alongside AfriForum and other stakeholders to address rural safety concerns and improve crime data accuracy.

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