Crime statistics presented by North West provincial police commissioner Lt. Gen. Arthur Peter Adams and community safety and transport MEC Virginia Tsotso Tlhapi in Mmabatho this past week showed the Free State, North West and Northern Cape collectively registered 14 dockets for multiple murders between April and June.

During the period under review, the Northern Cape recorded one docket involving two victims, while the Free State registered four dockets involving 12 victims. The North West accounted for nine multiple-murder dockets involving 27 victims.

Gauteng recorded the highest number, with 65 dockets accounting for 165 victims, followed by the Western Cape, which recorded 65 dockets involving 150 victims. In her opening address, Tlhapi conveyed her condolences to families mourning the loss of their loved ones.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to all families involved. Members of the South African Police Service are currently prioritising the investigative work in these high-profile cases, the likes of Thato Molosankwe, Letsie, and others.”

Mahikeng residents have expressed disappointment and frustration over the handling of the murder case involving North West civil rights activist Thato Molosankwe. This follows the failure of two suspects arrested in connection with Molosankwe’s killing to appear before the Molopo Magistrate’s Court. The suspects were reportedly released while police continue with further investigations.

Meanwhile, police are still searching for other suspects linked to the murder of another activist, Daniel Letsie Makhabe, 40, also known as Mokoena. He was shot and killed at an informal settlement in Sonderwater, Ikageng, near Potchefstroom, earlier this year.

Whistleblowers

Tlhapi said the tragic incidents serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by people who stand up against crime and injustice.

“We must strengthen the protection of whistleblowers, anti-crime activists, and human rights defenders, who often find themselves vulnerable because of their courage and commitment to serving the public interest. Their safety remains a priority in building safer and more just communities.”

Meanwhile, Adams warned the combination of widespread alcohol availability and unemployment could have serious consequences for the province.

“If we compare the availability of liquor with the unemployment rate, we are really on a path of self-destruction. I understand liquor premises contribute to the economy, but at some point we need to have a serious reflection on where we are now and where we are heading. It is the faces behind the cases that are the people bearing the brunt of crimes fuelled by liquor.”

Drunken driving has also emerged as a concern in the province. An intensive operation in Mahikeng and surrounding areas resulted in the arrest of 102 motorists for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol. Tlhapi said drunken driving had been identified as one of the major contributing factors to the high rate of road crashes, fatalities and other incidents on the province’s roads.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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