Police chief warns of rising crime due to community intolerance

KwaZulu-Natal’s top cop has warned that growing intolerance among residents is fuelling crime, with increasing numbers of assault cases reported across the province.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi said that disputes between neighbours, relatives, and acquaintances are increasingly ending in violence — a trend that is pushing up crime statistics.

“Intolerance among community members is becoming a serious criminal concern,” Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi said during a meeting with police station commanders in Durban, as part of a review of the 2024/25  year. 

“We are appealing to residents to be better neighbours and resolve disagreements peacefully, without resorting to physical attacks.”

He revealed that incidents of common assault and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm have increased, with the Chatsworth policing precinct recently emerging as a hotspot for such cases.

“Many of these crimes occur when one or both parties are under the influence of alcohol,” Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi said. “Our analysis shows that impatience and intolerance are significant contributors to the surge in these violent encounters.”

Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi also raised concern over the rising number of road rage incidents, that are adding to assault case volumes.

“Motorists often argue over minor issues, but these altercations frequently escalate into physical confrontations. Often both parties lay charges against each other, claiming self-defence,” he explained. “We urge all road users to remain calm and avoid conflict.”

While highlighting these worrying trends, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi also noted some progress in other areas. The province has recorded a drop in murder, aggravated robbery, vehicle hijackings, and robberies at homes and businesses.

However, there was a slight increase in cash-in-transit (CIT) robberies, with two more cases reported compared to the previous year.

“Even one CIT robbery endangers multiple lives. This is deeply concerning,” he said.

Addressing gender-based violence, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi said the scourge of rape and sexual offences remains a top priority for the SAPS in the province. “We are working tirelessly with limited resources to find effective strategies and solutions,” he said.

Despite the challenges, police achieved notable successes last year, arresting 144 019 suspects and recovering 3 662 illegal firearms and more than 51 000 rounds of ammunition.

“These are positive signs that, with continued community cooperation, we can overcome crime,” Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi said.

He also highlighted the strain on resources, noting that KwaZulu-Natal is currently policed by just 19 600 functional officers, down from 25 000, serving a population of over 12.4 million — not including undocumented immigrants.

“This reality makes the public’s role in crime prevention and resolution more crucial than ever,” he said.