The state of crime in South Africa: An analysis of the SAPS crime statistics for 2009/10

Authors

  • Johan Burger Institute for Security Studies
  • Chandré Gould Institute for Security Studies
  • Gareth Newham Institute for Security Studies

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/2413-3108/2010/i34a872

Keywords:

crime statistics, SAPS, South Africa

Abstract

This article presents an analysis of the 2009/10 SAPS crime statistics, which are released by the South African Police Service in September each year. The statistics for the 2009/10 period show an overall increase in crime at a national level that is driven by increases in five categories of crime: shoplifting, commercial crime, residential and business burglaries, and theft from motor vehicles. While the statistics suggest that violent crime has decreased, there are a number of questions about the accuracy of the statistics. The article discusses this issue and reflects on how the accuracy and reporting of crime statistics could be improved.

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Author Biographies

Johan Burger, Institute for Security Studies

Crime and Justice Programme

Chandré Gould, Institute for Security Studies

Crime and Justice Programme

Gareth Newham, Institute for Security Studies

Crime and Justice Programme

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Published

2010-03-08

Issue

Section

Research articles