Residents of the Eastern Cape are living in fear of violent criminals, who continue to murder and rape with impunity.

The crime statistics for the second quarter of the 2021/22 financial year, between July and September, released by National Police Minister, Bheki Cele, paint a dismal picture of runaway crime across the country.

There were 1 000 people murdered in the province in three months, a staggering rise of 9.1% compared to last year. Mthatha Lusikisiki, Bethelsdorp and New Brighton remain murder hotspots, featuring in the top 30 stations for murder in the country. There were 1 533 rape cases registered, up 7,6% compared to last year.

It is clear that SAPS’ interventions to date are failing to keep our people safe and more needs to be done!

Also extremely concerning is the rocketing number of cash-in-transit robberies, which more than doubled from 6 to 17 in the three months under review.

Carjackings also rose from 298 between July and September 2020/2021 to 334 for the period under review, while robberies at non-residential premises rose 18.6%, from 553 to 656.

These statistics talk to an increase in organised crime syndicate activities, which is extremely concerning.

There needs to be accountability and a clear commitment from the MEC of Community Safety, Weziwe Tikana-Gxothiwe, and SAPS to address this disaster.

The Democratic Alliance will continue to fight for a safe and secure province, where people can live without fear in their communities and neighbourhoods.

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