Releasing crime statistics for the fourth quarter of 2020/2021, Cele highlighted that Gender-based Violence (GBV) and Contact Crimes continues to be a major cause of concern. He said whilst there is some slight decrease in contact crimes such as sexual offences, more needs to be done to protect communities. Cele announced sexual offences have decreased by 3.9 % and 42% of dockets for crimes committed against women and children, which had been outstanding for over a year, have now been finalised.

“The sexual violence meted out against women in this country is simply shameful. Seemingly men and children are not spared. While there has been a decline in sexual offences cases, 9 518 people were raped between January and March. This is a decrease of 387 cases, amounting to an almost 4% decrease compared to the previous reporting period,” he said.

Cele has further warned that there is no room for complacency when it comes to GBV.

“Those ‘sleeping on the job’ – must get their act together or ship out. Station commanders, I urge you to act decisively against sub-standard service at your stations,” he warned.

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