CRIME STATS DELAY ERODES PUBLIC TRUST

'These figures form the foundation on which communities respond to violence'

- THEOLIN TEMBO

THE SAPS' prolonged delays in releasing the country's quarterly crime statistics hinder advocacy efforts, community safety planning, and prevention strategies, say civil organisation movements.

Initially expected to be released in August, then September, the postponement of the first quarter crime statistics has drawn sharp criticism.

Asked when the statistics would be released, Kamogelo Mogotsi, acting police minister Firoz Cachalia's spokesperson said: “The statistics will be released in November, for both quarters. The SAPS can better advise on the delay.”

Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, recently warned that the delay is not merely a technical issue but one that “undermines public confidence, data integrity and trust in the police”.

Both ActionSA and the DA have expressed serious concern over the police's failure to deliver the statistics on time, calling for transparency and accountability.