Crime in SA sign of wider societal problems - Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has said some of the causes of crime in the country are patriarchy, misogyny, and broken family structures.
The president said police need to be guided by the Batho Pele principles of high service standards, consultation, equal access to services, and treating citizens with respect, dignity, and empathy.
He was addressing the issue of combatting criminal syndicates in various communities.
Ramaphosa made these remarks whilst delivering his keynote address at the Inaugural Policing Summit on Tuesday.
He said addressing crime without understanding its root causes is like a doctor treating a patient for a fever without diagnosing the underlying illness.
"Crime is both a cause and a symptom. It is a cause of insecurity and instability in communities. It weakens the social fabric.
"Crime has a direct impact on the economy. It discourages investment, disrupts business activity, and leads to increased security costs for companies.
The president also said the high levels of crime were a symptom of wider problems in society.
"Poverty and inequality, unemployment, lack of opportunity, patriarchy and misogyny, and broken family structures are just some of the issues that contribute to crime and criminality.
"Addressing crime without understanding its root causes is like a doctor treating a patient for a fever without diagnosing the underlying illness."
Ramaphosa urged South Africans to support the police in the fight against crime.
As a country we owe the SAPS our full support.
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) April 8, 2025
As government we remain committed to turning the tide against crime and to making our communities safer.
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"It is therefore encouraging that this summit has as one of its key objectives adopting a more holistic approach to law-enforcement, encompassing not just the police but the entire policing system.
"It is also encouraging that this summit brings together stakeholders from the safety and security establishment, communities and civil society, business, the interfaith sector, labour, and other sectors.
"Just as crime is an all-of-society problem, overcoming crime must be an all-of-society effort. In doing so, we must marshall our full support behind the hardworking men and women of the South African Police Service. The policing terrain of today is complex and multi-faceted."
He said the police strive to fulfill their mandate in the context of emerging threats.
Ramaphosa complemented police minister Senzo Mchunu for overseeing the very first policing summit.
He said he looked forward to this three-day summit changing the course of policing in our country.
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