- Minister of Police Bheki Cele said certain categories of sexual offences have decreased.
- He said over 300 cases of rape were reported at educational institutions.
- KwaZulu-Natal has the highest number of cases in the country.
Police Minister Bheki Cele says the campaign against gender-based violence and femicide must be intensified following the release of the 2019/2020 financial year crime statistics.
Speaking at a media briefing following his presentation to Parliament, Cele said certain categories of sexual offences have decreased while others were increasing.
Of particular concern for him was that educational institutions were becoming "hotbeds" for sexual violence.
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"About 380 cases of rape were reported at either schools, universities, colleges or day-care facilities," he said.
"Awareness campaigns on gender-based violence and femicide must be intensified; private sector and gender activist organisations must work together with government to defeat the scourge and expose perpetrators in this regard".
Violent crimes
Cele added the recent crime statistics reflected a slowing down of violent crimes.
"Indeed, we are not where we want to be, however, we are pleased with the improvements in most stubborn crime categories".
He said KwaZulu-Natal had recorded the highest number of cases in the country as well as increasing sexual offences and trio crimes.
"Operational interventions are in place to stabilise KZN, including strengthening the resources under Operation Vala".
Stock theft has also decreased as well as property related crimes.
"All crimes under this category indicated a major decrease, including burglary at residential premises which has declined by 6.7%," Cele added.