Stats reveal a continued surge in crime in Amajuba District
Statistics released by the National SAPS paint a grim picture of the rising crime rates in the Amajuba district.
The report, dated August 30, covers the final quarter of 2023/24 (January to March 2024) and the first quarter of 2024/25 (April to June 2024). It shows an alarming increase in violent crimes including attempted murder, assault GBH (Grievous Bodily Harm), common robbery, sexual offenses, and drug-related crimes reported at the Osizweni, Madadeni and Newcastle Police stations.
Within the Amajuba district, the Osizweni police station has come under scrutiny for the number of sexual offenses and rape reported there. Ranking 22nd and 19th respectively among South African police stations for these crimes, Osizweni’s troubling statistics reflect a broader issue of GBV taking into account that most rapes occur either in the residences of the perpetrator or the victim.
The Madadeni police station is also under the spotlight for its ‘significant number of assault cases. It ranks 7th nationally for assault with grievous bodily harm, with 192 cases reported between April and June 2024. Additionally, the station ranks 23rd for common assault with 185 cases reported over the same period.
In Newcastle, residents have reported a surge in attempted murder, theft, burglary at non-residential premises, and common robbery. As evidenced by the commonly reported drug scourge in town, drug-related crimes have also surged, with a disturbing increase of 138 cases, placing the local station 7th provincially for drug-related offenses.
Despite these concerning trends, there is a slight reduction in residential burglaries, shoplifting, illegal possession, driving under the influence, and robberies at residential and non-residential premises, providing a small measure of relief amid the broader crime wave.
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