The latest crime statistics from the Mpumalanga province paint a troubling picture of rising
violence and lawlessness in the region during the third quarter of 2023-2024 (October to
December 2023). Across the province’s three districts – Nkangala, Gert Sibande, and Ehlanzeni –
nearly every category of serious crime saw worrying increases compared to previous quarters.

Murder saw one of the steepest province-wide spikes, up 9.2% from the prior quarter to 329
reported cases. Sexual offences like rape also jumped 6.8% to 1,019 cases. The numbers reveal
an increasingly dangerous environment, especially for women and children.

Robbery and property crimes like burglary and vehicle theft similarly trended upward as
economic pressures likely drove more desperation crimes. Carjackings surged over 18% to 253
reported cases in just three months.

In the breakdown by district, Ehlanzeni emerged as a particular crime hotspot. It recorded the
highest incident rates for murder, attempted murder, sexual offences and robbery. The towns of
Nelspruit, Kanyamazane and Pienaar contributed disproportionately to these grim totals.

Gert Sibande district followed closely behind in the rates of violence and property crime, with
stations like Standerton, Secunda and Ermelo acting as major sources. Even the relatively
affluent areas were not spared from the lawlessness.

Police leadership cited potential factors like unemployment, substance abuse and the circulation
of illegal firearms as contributors to the surge. A shortage of officers and resources hampered
their ability to combat it.

The dramatic escalation across so many crime categories over just one quarter represents a
worrying trend that demands urgent intervention. Communities will be looking to provincial
officials to articulate a clear plan for restoring safety and security.