Gauteng homes a major target for criminals

4 October 2017

While the overall rate of reported crime in Gauteng has decreased, according to the 2016/17 StatsSA Victims of Crime Survey, households in the province have become the preferred target of choice for criminals.

Gauteng has the highest number of victimised households in South Africa with 306 888 cases recorded, compared to the DA-run Western Cape which reported 214 914.

The number of households that experienced at least one break in, stands at 190 568. In the Western Cape this figure stands at only 77 723.

Of this figure, Ekurhuleni experience the most break in’s with 59 822 for the year under review.

This was followed by Johannesburg with 55 334, Tshwane at 52 035 with non-Metro areas accounting for the balance.

Robberies that occurred at home also ranked the highest in SA with 43 044 incidents reported.

Assault also featured prominently with 38 615 incidents reported.

It is clear from these figures that residents of Gauteng are not safe in their homes.

Strategic planning needs to take place to ensure that sectors are effectively monitored and that there are strong links formed with Community Police Forums.

Gauteng MEC for Community Safety Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane should take heed of these trends and establish revised protocols for SAPS members to ensure that the residents of this province can be kept safe in their homes.

Issued by Kate Lorimer, DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety, 4 October 2017