Crime in South Africa has been increasing since 1994. However, the most worrying trend is the level of violent crime. Between 1998 and 1999 violent crime increased by almost 10%. South Africa may be in danger of losing the battle against crime.
Violent attacks against farms and smallholdings have been a continuing feature of crime in South Africa. The rural protection plan was implemented to tackle this problem. A recent ISS study focusing on three areas evaluated the rural protection plan.
People living in rural areas are as almost likely to become victims of crime as those in urban areas. However, the rural poor are less able to deal with crime. Survey results question the police’s crime combating ability in these areas.
Since 1994 there has been a rapid increase in the number of private security companies. Security officers now outnumber police officers by more than two to one. With the growth of the private security industry has come concern of its regulation. A new regulatory framework for the industry is to be tabled in parliament later this year.
South Africa’s borders have always been difficult to control. The border between South Africa and Mozambique has traditionally been a conduit for smuggling. It is through these routes that arms smuggling occur. How effective are present border controls?
In the continuing war against organised crime in South Africa, the Asset Forfeiture Unit in the office of the National Director of Public Prosecutions is seen as major component. New powers have led to greater ambitions and priorities for the unit.
Members of the media are free to report information contained in this publication on the understanding that the Nedbank ISS Crime Index is acknowledged and a copy of the publication in which any information is used is sent to the editor.
