In a comprehensive address delivered on Friday, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu outlined significant strides being made in combating crime during the fourth quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year, covering the period from January 1 to March 31, 2025. Despite ongoing concerns, Mchunu affirmed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is adapting its strategies, showing a decline in various categories of crime, while also addressing pressing issues, including allegations of genocide and police brutality.”As the Ministry of Police under the 7th Administration, we have clearly outlined our policing priorities,” Mchunu stated. These priorities include ambitious goals such as reducing murder rates, tackling gang violence, combating organised crime, and addressing gender-based violence (GBV+F).Reflecting on the ongoing challenges, the Minister reported a concerning increase in specific crime categories. “While we are witnessing significant decreases in most crime categories compared to the preceding financial year, sexual offences, including rape, are notably on the rise,” he remarked. This alarming trend has prompted the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security Cluster to initiate a 90-day blitz targeting GBV, which commenced on May 1, 2025.
Murder Stats and Provincial Breakdown
All provinces, with the exception of the Northern Cape, reported drops in murder rates, showcasing a positive shift in national statistics. However, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape, and the Eastern Cape remain pivotal in the fight against this violent crime, contributing significantly to the national figures.
Highlighting the gravity of law enforcement challenges, Mchunu expressed deep concern regarding the loss of police officers during this period. “Twenty-two police officers were lost, with six on duty and 16 off duty—ten of whom were stationed in Gauteng,” he said, emphasising that “an attack on a police officer is an attack on the state.” This statement underscores the broader implications of violence against those entrusted to uphold the law.
Farm Attacks and Societal Concerns
The Minister also touched on the controversial issue of farm attacks, citing six incidents within the quarter. Mchunu clarified the complexities surrounding these attacks, noting that the victims included individuals of various backgrounds. “In principle, we do not categorise people by race,” he stated, while addressing the claims of a ‘genocide of white people’ circulating both domestically and internationally. “It is unfounded,” he firmly stated, stressing unity in the face of divisive rhetoric.
Policing Strategies and Future Initiatives
A total of 178,757 suspects were arrested during the quarter, showcasing the dedication of law enforcement. However, increases in commercial crime by 4.7% indicate the need for continued vigilance. Mchunu attributed this rise primarily to Gauteng and the Western Cape but reassured citizens of ongoing efforts to combat such crimes. “Operation Shanela continues to produce results with 1,641 illegal firearms seized during this reporting period,” he noted, referring to a significant initiative aimed at addressing illegal firearm possession.
Furthermore, as part of its commitment to improve policing efficiency, the SAPS recently approved a National Policing Policy, marking a pivotal moment in law enforcement strategy. The Minister outlined plans for adopting technology to enhance crime detection and response, alongside renovating police facilities to better serve the community and improve officers’ working conditions. “We aim to foster a police service that reflects the values and aspirations of our democracy,” Mchunu asserted.