The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) says the crime statistics released by Police Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko on Friday reflect more of a social problem than a policing problem.
“Police are often put to the front and usually take the blame for the increase in criminal activities, while consideration is not fully made regarding the role we all need to collectively play with communities, business and government departments, among others, in taking necessary measures to prevent crime,” said Popcru spokesman Richard Mamabolo.
“We are of the view that the outcomes of these statistics should not be approached in an abstract manner, but should result in a cohesive approach that would ensure all role players form part of finding long-term solutions to the worrying trends we have witnessed over the years.”
The minister said that police had made a “serious dent” in crime, but the murder rate had gone up by 4.9%.
Popcru welcomed the proposal that crime stats be released on a quarterly basis, and this would prompt a speedy response in dealing with increases.
The union also noted that the majority of prisons were filled with youngsters, which reflects social frustrations like unemployment, poverty and substance abuse.
“All of which have been identified as part of the causal factors for aggressive crimes such as armed robbery, house break-ins, theft and murder.”
@heidigiokos
Labour Bureau