Crime ridden areas need attention - ANC

The African National Congress called for urgent attention to be given to certain areas in the crime statistics released on Thursday.

 

"Urgency must be given to areas that have been identified as still problematic including increase in burglary, increase in theft out of motor vehicle, commercial crime, car hijacking, truck hijacking, drug related crimes, drunken driving, and violent public protests," spokesman Jackson Mthembu said in a statement.

 

The party called on people to take a stand against substance abuse and to exercise restraint during legal protests and strikes.

 

The ruling party was concerned that the decline in murder was experiencing a reversal, even if it was below one percent. The increase in attempted murders was cause for concern.

 

"The increase of aggravated robbery undermines good work that has been achieved in reducing robberies," he said.

 

Mthembu said the ANC welcomed the decrease of violence against women and children.

 

"We believe that the reduction of contact related crimes confirms the effectiveness of the police strategies to keep our communities safe.

 

"The decrease in sexual offences including rape must assist in the effort of confronting the scourge of dehumanising women and children."

 

The ANC applauded the criminal justice cluster for its commitment to fighting crime under difficult conditions.

 

-Sapa