Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Police has commended the South African Police Services (SAPS) for the strides taken against reducing crime. This follows recently released crime statistics by the Minister of Police indicating a drop in crime in the country.
Committee Chairperson, Ms Cindy Chikunga said the Committee was impressed with the statistics which has indicated a gradual decrease of crime. 'This is an indication that people are doing their work', she said.
Ms Chikunga said the decrease could be attributed to a number of factors. ''It’s a combination of factors, including the role played by police operations during high crime seasons as well as the resources which are pumped into SAPS,'' said Ms Chikunga.
The SAPS has been improving every year, and according to the Committee, the South African public is now beginning to get value for money. ''There is also an increase in the political will as the fight against crime is one of the five priorities of government,'' she said. The robust oversight and engagement done by the Committee was also a contributing factor to the decrease in crime. “We have been holding this department accountable in a robust manner,” said Ms Chikunga.
The Committee is however worried by the fact that rape has increased. This is a worrying factor that the most vulnerable people in society are still being attacked.''The statistics could be an indication that more people are reporting rape, which is encouraging, but more needs to be done to fight rape,'' said Ms Chikunga.
The Committee encouraged that the decrease should be sustained and that there should be a further decrease in the crime statistics as to ensure the safety of citizens.
Today SAPS presented their anti-corruption strategy, which the Committee welcomed: but they cautioned against it not being implemented. ''It’s a good strategy but in the SAPS monitoring; accountability for individual actions, omission and commissions, and consequences for wrongdoing are sometimes found wanting”.
Enquiries:
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E-mail: kndyondya@parliament.gov.za
Portfolio Committee on Police commends decrease in crime
