Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe during the release of provincial crime statistics.
LIMPOPO POLICE’S FIGHT AGAINST CRIME YIELDS POSITIVE RESULTS
By: Boitumelo Makhapheetja
Limpopo Province has reinforced its reputation as one of South Africa’s safest province, with a remarkable 28% decline in murder cases during the third quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year.
This accomplishment is largely credited to the collaborative efforts between law enforcement and communities in combating crime, as highlighted by Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, during the release of provincial crime statistics in Polokwane on Tuesday.
Despite this progress, the Thohoyandou area remains a concern, ranking among the top 30 policing areas for contact crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery. The rapid growth of liquor outlets in the area has been identified as a significant contributor to the high crime rate, with Vhembe District Commissioner, Major-General Eddie Van der Walt, revealing that liquor premises have been raided daily, resulting in the closure of 335 sheebens and 627 taverns.
Hadebe highlighted the importance of community involvement in reducing crime, stating that when communities get involved, people see the impact and trust in the police is strengthened. This collaborative approach has led to a significant decrease in crime, with Limpopo Policing Forums’ chairperson, Frans Kgasago, urging the public to continue reporting crime and working together to create a safer province.
Some notable achievements in Limpopo’s crime statistics include:
* Crime Reduction: A 28% drop in murder cases in the third quarter.
*Community Involvement: Active community participation in fighting crime.
*Liquor Outlet Crackdown: Closure of 335 sheebens and 627 taverns in the Thohoyandou area.
*Crime Reporting: Over 390 cases of grievous bodily harm reported in the last two quarters.
Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Jan Scheepers.
MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Ms. Violet Mathye.