Limpopo police release 2nd quarter crime statics

LIMPOPO – Provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe, joined by the MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Florence Radzilani released the 2022/23 second quarter crime statistics last Tuesday during a media briefing held at the provincial head office in Polokwane.

Hadebe pointed out that the statistics are to be used as a yardstick to measure performance. “Limpopo’s primary focus is the prevention of gender-based violence and femicide, while effectively combatting aggravated crimes such as carjacking, residential burglaries, business premises robberies and cash-in-transit heists.”

She emphasised that as a province, security measures and stringent regulations relating to illegal economic practices and firearm control measures will be bolstered.

“Through our intensive operations, we arrested 72 suspects for illicit mining and confiscated equipment worth R2.5m. For this period, there was a notable 11.2% decline in murder cases, amounting to 30 fewer cases than the previous quarter. Among the reported 237 cases, vigilantism accounted for 37, while arguments, misunderstandings, or provocations gave rise to 38 of these murders. As part of our efforts to apprehend those responsible, we successfully arrested 149 suspects for murder,” Hadebe said.

In her remarks, the MEC emphasised that intensified cooperation between government and civil society should win the battle against crime. She also commended the good work the provincial commissioner is doing, and called for cooperation between the community, community policing forums and the ward committee in lending a hand in fighting against crime.

“As government, we are worried when the community takes the law into their own hands, as it has the potential to create a state of lawlessness. We urge the community to report any criminal activities to the police.

“Operation Kukula is commendable in the fight against crime; it must be replicated throughout the province,” said Radzilani.

The MEC expressed concern over Thohoyandou Police Station ranking highest in the province in most crime categories.

The Limpopo police, led by Hadebe are ready to ensure that residents, businesses and holiday makers feel and are safe during the festive season period and beyond, she concluded.