Today's release of crime statistics show incremental improvements across the board, so South Africans have room to be cautiously optimistic. Crime is something which affects each and every South African and a decrease in crime is obviously something to be welcomed. Crime statistics, which are released annually, provide an important assessment of how well the government is managing to keep South Africans safe.

South Africans have felt safer in the World Cup year than they have for some time. When the stats for next year are released, the SAPS special measures during the tournament may translate into even greater measurable outcomes and demonstrate the efficacy of specifically visible policing when safety is a non-negotiable priority of government.

The SAPS have made important strides, especially in contact crimes. In 2009/2010, 2.1 million crimes were reported. The murder rate is down by a significant 8.6%, this is the first time this decade that the murder rate is below the 18000 mark. Attempted murder is down by 6.1%, robberies with the attempt to inflict grievous bodily harm and sexual offences are also down.

Worryingly, residential burglaries have once again increased by 2.7%, having increased by 27% the previous year. This means that South Africans are unfortunately less safe in their homes than they were the previous year.

The rate of increase in these crimes as well as robberies at business premises is a great deal lower than the previous financial year, however, the total continues to rise. This is coupled with an unfortunate increase at business premises robberies, which are up by 4,4% having increased by 41% the previous year.

We commend all the brave men and women in the SAPS for their efforts to keep South Africa safe. We also proffer our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the 110 police officers who died in the course of duty.

The successful hosting and drop in crime over the Fifa World Cup will probably allow for an even lower crime rate in the next financial year. We await the release of the SAPS annual report in order to properly evaluate the full extent of the crime statistics for 2009/2010.

Statement issued by Dianne Kohler Barnard, MP, Democratic Alliance Shadow Minister of Police September 9 2010

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