Statement on the Release of SA's Crime Stats
by VB Ndlovu MP
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National Assembly: 22nd September 2009
On behalf of the IFP, I honour the men and women of the South African Police Service who risk their lives and endure endless obstacles in the protection of their fellow human beings. As we consider the latest crime statistics, let us not lose sight of the people behind the numbers. The increase in crime against our most vulnerable segments of society is deplorable. Owners of SMME's and informal businesses do not have the resources to install expensive CCTV cameras and hire extra security guards. We must have more visible policing, especially in communities, so that people can feel safe in their own homes and safe when they conduct business. This will curb crime even against foreigners, who are particularly targeted. We also call for better intelligence to prevent crime. In the case of stock thefts, increased military intelligence must be coupled with the involvement of the army. People living in rural areas depend on livestock for survival and do not have the means to fight back, particularly when stock is moved across our borders. The poor and the vulnerable need a strong champion. That is what today's crime statistics are telling us. In the end, every statistic in the document before us reflects a deeply affected life in a deeply affected society. South Africans are being driven further and further apart, afraid even to look each other in the eye, because every headline screams "CRIME" and every family has a story of tragedy and injustice. The numbers before us are more than indicators of failure; they are the evidence of a malaise that South Africa must not be allowed to succumb to. Contact:
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