Gauteng province has recorded a 15 percent decrease in murders and a 9.9 percent decline in rape cases, contributing to an overall 5.2 percent reduction in crime compared to the same period last year, according to provincial police leadership.
Provincial Commissioner General Tommy Mthombeni, addressing the Gauteng legislature, confirmed that contact crimes—including murder, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, and aggravated robbery—fell by 2,433 incidents, representing a 5.9 percent reduction. Attempted murder specifically decreased by 3.2 percent.
While celebrating the downward trend, Mthombeni noted that mass killings remain a significant concern. He reported that 50 multiple-victim murder cases were opened during the period, involving a total of 135 victims.
Kidnappings also continue to pose challenges, with Johannesburg identified as the national epicenter for reported cases. Most kidnappings in the province are linked to vehicle hijackings. To address this, authorities are implementing an integrated multidisciplinary intervention involving the national anti-kidnapping unit, provincial organized crime structures, and the E2 project, which collaborates with the private security industry.
Mthombeni credited Operation Shanela with playing a significant role in reducing crime across the province. He emphasized that police are prepared for any eventuality ahead of an anticipated shutdown scheduled for June 30, 2026, related to illegal immigration.
“We are ready. Collectively we are ready,” Mthombeni stated, referencing the Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy (ICVPS). The six-pillar, whole-of-government approach was approved in March 2022 and guides collaborative efforts with critical stakeholders to sustain crime reduction gains.
The Commissioner affirmed that law enforcement will “not leave anything to chance” as they continue implementing proactive measures to maintain public safety and build on the recent statistical improvements.
