Opposition parties demand police reform amid shocking stats

THE delayed release of South Africa’s first and second-quarter crime statistics for 2025/26 has ignited a wave of alarm and distrust, as opposition parties and civil society groups condemn escalating violent crime — particularly gender-based violence (GBV) — and the perceived collapse of the national police service.

- KAREN SINGH

ActionSA member of Parliament Dereleen James raised concerns that 63 South Africans were murdered every day, confirming that vulnerable citizens face escalating danger in communities.

"Even schools are not being spared. Almost 200 rapes were recorded on school grounds during this period," she said.

Western Cape gang-related murders rose from 282 (April-June) to 293 (July-September), indicating sustained community vulnerability to warring gangs.

"In Cape Town, the picture becomes even more troubling. Four of the top five murder stations in the country fall within the city, making clear that it remains the epicentre of a deeper failure to end the violence terrorising forgotten communities," said James.

James said the delayed release inspired little confidence that the government can effectively address the violent crime destroying the country.

"With both the Ad Hoc Committee and the Madlanga Commission confirming the extent of criminal capture, it is increasingly clear that South Africa has been captured by rampant lawlessness," stated James.

DA KZN spokesperson on Community Safety, Riona Gokool MPL, highlighted that KZN disproportionately contributes to South Africa's violent crime burden.