Limpopo Records Mixed Crime-Trend Shift

Limpopo has recorded a mixed shift in crime trends, with the latest statistics showing a notable decline in violent offences such as murder, alongside a worrying rise in sexual crimes. The figures, covering April to September 2025, were released in Polokwane by Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe on Friday.

According to the report, the first quarter of the financial year (April to June) reflected a reduction in contact crimes, as well as decreases in property and commercial offences. However, the period also saw a significant rise in sexual offences, a trend that continued into the second quarter.

Police confirmed that sexual offences increased by 7.1% between June and September, aligning with similar patterns seen nationally. Authorities acknowledged the concern, emphasising that gender-based violence remains one of the province’s most persistent social challenges that requires sustained intervention.

The second quarter also revealed encouraging improvements in violent-crime categories. The murder rate fell by 20%, while cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and robbery with aggravating circumstances dropped by 14.5%. Trio crimes—which include carjackings, business robberies and residential robberies—also declined by 21.9%. Police say this reflects the effectiveness of targeted operational strategies.

Carjackings alone dropped by 34 cases, signalling progress in hotspot monitoring and rapid-response policing.

Despite improvements in several areas, Commissioner Hadebe noted that the province continues to grapple with complex cases of domestic violence. A recent incident involving the deaths of two police officers highlighted the hidden and devastating nature of violence within homes.

Police say intensified community partnerships, continuous public awareness, and strengthened investigative capacity remain crucial in preventing further harm.