The rate of homicides in South Africa decreased in the second quarter of the year compared to the same period last year, for the first time since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic in the country more than three years ago, according to official statistics released Friday.
Some 62,228 crimes were recorded between April and June, a decrease of 3.1 percent, according to figures provided by the police.
"The crime rate is still unacceptable," said Police Minister Beheki Sele, during a press conference broadcast live on television, but that the police were "making progress" in this regard.
"For the first time since the emergence of Covid in the country in 2020, the homicide rate has decreased in a quarter," he added.
The figures, which reflect the number of murders broadcast live on television every three months, have been on the rise for several months. South Africa, which has a reputation as one of the most dangerous countries in the world, saw the last significant drop in violent crime during the COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020.
At the same time, Seleh considered that this decrease by 3.1 percent in the number of murders is not a reason for rejoicing, pointing out that the number of 6,228 crimes is not just a number, but indicates a life that was taken from all these victims at the hands of other people.
According to statistics, three murders were committed every hour in the first quarter of the year.
The most commonly used means in carrying out murders are firearms, knives and sharp tools.
In the second quarter of the year, the country also recorded a decrease of 2.8 percent in the number of rape complaints registered by the police.
"The majority of sexual assaults occur between people who know each other well," Seleh said, noting that the fight against crime begins in our homes.
