The Western Cape Government has expressed disappointment at a 10.9% increase in murders from July to September 2023 compared to the same period last year. The figures reveal a rise from 1050 murders in the 2nd quarter of the 2022/23 financial year to 1164 in 2023/24.
Concerningly, murder in the Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) deployment areas increased by 18.6% overall, with 649 cases reported in 2023/24 compared to 547 in 2022/23.
LEAP areas, strategically chosen for their high crime rates, experienced an increase in murder, contributing significantly to the overall rise. Excluding LEAP areas, the general increase in murder in the Western Cape was 2.4%.
Areas where LEAP officers recorded decreases in homicides include Kraaifontein (11.1%), Nyanga (11.3%), and Philippi East (14.8%). However, several areas witnessed alarming spikes, with Bishop Lavis recording a 192.9% increase, Delft at 15.9%, Gugulethu at 55.9%, and Mfuleni at 56.5%, among others.
Factors Contributing to the Increase:
- A violent mini-bus taxi strike in August 2023 created an environment where criminal elements thrived, contributing to higher levels of crime, including murder.
- Multiple mass murders occurred during the review period, notably in Gugulethu, where two incidents resulted in the deaths of five victims each, contributing to a sharp increase in reported murders.
- Arguments and misunderstandings accounted for the majority (33%) of murders.
- Gang-related killings continue to be a significant concern in the Western Cape, with 78% of national gang-related murders occurring in the province. Gang-related murders made up 29% of the known causes of murder.
- Robbery-related murders accounted for 14% of the total.
- Seven police officers lost their lives in the line of duty during this quarter.
While the Western Cape Government is committed to analyzing contributing factors, Premier Alan Winde expressed disappointment in the latest figures and emphasized the need to intensify efforts to address violent crime. The province is investing in proactive measures to address the root causes of crime, including job creation and data-led, evidence-based policing.
Despite the recent increase, a report from the Institute for Security Studies indicates a long-term downward trend in murder rates in the Western Cape. The per-capita murder rate in the province has decreased over the past five years, showcasing the impact of the government’s interventions.
What can be done to address the rise in murder in the Western Cape?
There are a number of things that can be done to address the rise in murder in the Western Cape. These include:
- Increased police presence in high crime areas.
- More effective policing tactics.
- Investment in social programs that address the root causes of crime, such as poverty and unemployment.
- A crackdown on the illegal sale of firearms.
- Community engagement and education programs.
Premier Winde acknowledged the ongoing challenges and emphasized the commitment to making the Western Cape safer and more prosperous, noting that the latest figures serve as a reminder of the work still needed.
In a scathing response to the latest crime statistics, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for the immediate removal of Minister of Police Bheki Cele. Since Cele’s appointment in 2018, South Africa has witnessed an alarming surge in violent crimes, with nearly 130,000 murders recorded. The DA criticizes President Ramaphosa‘s refusal to dismiss Cele and highlights the grim reality faced by families and communities. The statistics reveal a dire situation, including 6,945 murders, 13,090 sexual offenses, and a disturbing increase in attempted murders. The DA asserts that weak leadership, coupled with poor policy decisions, has compromised the criminal justice system and emboldened criminals. The party vows to present evidence to President Ramaphosa, urging him to take decisive action against Cele.