Community safety and transport management MEC Wessels Morweng made the remarks while presenting the province’s 2025/26 fourth-quarter crime statistics at the Tilrelo Building in Mmabatho on Tuesday (9/6). The province recorded 271 murders between January and March 2026. 

This represents an increase of 18.3% compared to the same period last year. Attempted murder cases rose by 17.4%, while assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm increased by 3%.

“These figures remind us violence continues to threaten the safety and well-being of our communities,” said Morweng.

Violent crime

He said the latest statistics reinforce long-standing concerns about the underlying causes of violent crime in the province.

“The statistics further, and not surprisingly, confirm what we have always said: alcohol abuse, domestic violence, and substance abuse are among the key drivers of violent crime. 

“Added to that, illegal mining, vigilantism, and the proliferation of illegal firearms remain causal factors in crimes such as murder. Of particular concern are the 1,936 domestic violence-related incidents recorded for the quarter.”

Morweng said the high number of domestic violence incidents highlighted the urgent need for stronger intervention measures to protect vulnerable members of society.

“This also highlights an urgent need to strengthen prevention, protection, and support mechanisms for the victims.”  

The department would continue strengthening its working relationship with the police and intensify oversight visits and monitoring programmes at police stations, particularly in areas experiencing high levels of crime. Several violent incidents involving family members have been reported in the province in recent weeks.

‘Remains a serious challenge’

Following stabbing incidents involving family members in North West last week, acting provincial commissioner Maj. Gen. Ryno Naidoo warned violence within families remains a serious challenge. 

He said acts of violence within families and communities remain a serious concern and commended the swift response by police members, which contributed to the prompt arrests of suspects involved in the incidents.

Morweng said greater accountability and improved implementation of legislation aimed at protecting victims of domestic violence would form part of the department’s focus going forward.

“We will continue monitoring compliance with the Domestic Violence Act and related regulations. The department will assess the management of domestic violence cases, victim support services, record keeping, and the overall treatment of victims at police stations. 

In addition, accountability sessions will be held with police at provincial, district, and station levels.” 

He also expressed concern over the easy accessibility and proliferation of liquor outlets across communities, saying the issue requires a coordinated response from various stakeholders.

The department would intensify awareness campaigns and social crime prevention programmes aimed at tackling alcohol and substance abuse, particularly among young people.

The department also plans to strengthen intergovernmental relations to improve coordination and alignment of safety initiatives across provincial and local government structures as part of broader efforts to combat crime in the province.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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