Provincial police commissioner Lt. Gen. Thabang Lesia released the latest provincial crime statistics on Tuesday (1/9), covering the first quarter of 2026/27. On a quarterly basis, Free State police recorded a 16.1% decrease in murders during the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year.

The decrease in murders was accompanied by declines in several robbery-related crimes, including robbery with aggravating circumstances, car hijacking, and robbery at residential and non-residential premises. Collectively, these crimes decreased by 23.3%.

A total of 678 attempted murder cases were recorded between April and June, compared with 393 during the same period in the previous financial year.

Lesia said the increase requires urgent and focused attention, with police expected to identify the factors contributing to attempted murders, particularly in crime hotspots and among repeat offenders. He said prevention and investigative strategies will need to be strengthened to address the trend and prevent further escalation of violent crime.

“Community cooperation will be crucial as the Free State police intensify crime prevention and enforcement operations following the release of the latest provincial crime statistics,” said Lesia.

“Police cannot become complacent and must continue working to reduce the number of lives lost to violent crime. Behind every murder, there is a life lost and a family left behind.

‘We urge residents to play an active role by reporting criminal activity’

“The fight against crime belongs to all of us. Police will remain focused on preventing crime, disrupting criminal networks, recovering illegal firearms and ensuring that those who break the law face the full might of the criminal justice system. Your safety remains our priority.”

Progress was also recorded in cases of gender-based violence. During the first quarter, 14 people convicted of rape received life sentences. A further eight perpetrators were sentenced to between 20 and 30 years’ imprisonment, while 28 received sentences ranging from ten to 29 years. “These convictions demonstrate the commitment of police and prosecutors to ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence face justice.”

The commissioner said police will continue with Operation Shanela, high-density operations, crime prevention initiatives and cross-border operations with Lesotho. He urged residents to play an active role by reporting criminal activity, drug dealers and suspicious behaviour to the police.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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