There has been a massive increase in the number of murder cases in South Africa between October and December 2023, according to the latest crime statistics released by Police Minister Bheki Cele on Friday.

Between 1 October and 31 December 2023, a staggering total of 7,710 people were murdered – a 2.1% increase from the same period in 2022, representing 155 more lives lost.

“It is disturbing and concerning that the number of people murdered during this period increased by 2.1%, leading to 155 more people murdered as compared to the same period,” said Cele.

The top 5 stations where murders were reported included Inanda in KwaZulu-Natal, as well as Mfuleni, Gugulethu, Nyanga and Khayelitsha in the Western Cape. Alarmingly, 250 out of 268 gang-related murders occurred in the Western Cape alone.

“From a sample size of 7,340 murders, it was established that arguments, misunderstandings, and provocation remain the top causal factors leading to 1,116 murders,” Cele added gravely.

The statistics reveal a chilling pattern of violence, with 431 murders linked to vigilantism and mob justice attacks. Gauteng registered the highest number at 84, followed by the Eastern Cape with 80 and KwaZulu-Natal with 78.

Cele also provided conviction data, stating, “During the same period, the SAPS registered the following convictions in relation to murder: life imprisonment: 42 murderers were handed down 56 life sentences.”

The spike in murder cases is a grave cause for concern and highlights the urgent need for increased efforts to address the root causes of violence in South African communities.