POLOKWANE – Almost a quarter of the 58 murders that were committed in the province in the first three months of the year, came as a a result of provocation, road rage and arguments, while another 25% was the result of mob justice. Firearms are most often used.
The figure is roughly the same for the figures relating to attempted murder.
The crime stats for January to March 2023 show that murder in the province has increased by 13,7% – from 214 to 249 cases in the previous quarter.
Causative factors relating to attempted murder, show a correlation between the crime and persons carrying firearms in public spaces.
Police Minister, Bheki Cele presented the national crime figures in a hybrid setting on May 30, and the statistics formed part of discussions at a portfolio committee briefing session for Transport and Community Safety on Wednesday, with provincial police Commissioner, Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe present.
She said official comment on the crime statistics would be made once that political office concludes its series of meetings.
Polokwane psychologist, Dr Mokgaetji Mamabolo says in some immeasurable circumstances, impulsive reactions depict anger, often stemming from other social ills such as poverty, mental health and relationship or even financial issues while others could just be facing personality disorders.
This however, she says, should not encourage those who react in this way to continue doing so, due to the clear damning effects.
Those who cannot afford private mental health treatment, according to Social Development spokesperson, Joshua Kwapa, can contact them as they work with civil society organisations, non-profit organisations and social workers to offer psycho-social support. “We urge citizens to use these services instead of committing crimes that could cost a life,” he remarked.
Dr Mamabolo advises those who react impulsively to:
1. Seek professional help.
“A professional will assess and diagnose you correctly. This will not only help you accept better, but it will also save your life and others’.”
2. Advise your loved one to seek help.
“When you see someone close to you failing to accept situations beyond their control and being angry about them to a point where they become violent, recommend that they attend anger management courses or see a mental health specialist before they get caught in the crossfire.”
3. Develop social skills.
“When you stop living in isolation, you realise that other people have similar needs to yours. Therefore, you become more considerate. This will help you from provoking or attending a chance at anger when somebody makes a mistake or offends you.”
4. The law.
“Know prescripts of the law. They will help you refrain from unlawful activities such as reacting violently in the name of anger because you would know the repercussions.
