(The Post News)– Limpopo has recorded a 3.1% drop in overall crime. However, extortion cases have seen a worrying increase. Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe provides insights into the statistics and the province’s strategy to combat crime.
In an interview with Newzroom Africa, Lieutenant General Hadebe attributes the success to the “foot soldiers on the ground.” She credits the influx of over 500 recruits who were strategically deployed in hotspot areas. This boost in manpower was crucial during a busy season when the province saw an influx of people.
The Limpopo Provincial Crime Statistics for the second and third quarters of the 2024/2025 financial year were officially released on March 3, 2025. Commissioner Hadebe highlighted a decline in most crime categories, attributing the improvement to targeted high-density operations in hotspot areas and awareness campaigns in crime-ridden communities. She also praised the recruitment of 553 police constables, who strengthened various police units while increasing visibility and crime prevention measures.
Commissioner Hadebe explained that their continuous “vanilla operations” and the ability to analyse crime patterns played a significant role. They discovered that most crimes occurred over weekends and during the night. By focusing their operations during these times, they managed to make substantial progress in reducing crime.
Community involvement has also been a key factor. The people of Limpopo have been proactive in reporting crimes, which has allowed police officers to respond swiftly. The police’s spontaneous and effective response was met with applause from the community.
Despite the overall decrease in crime, the rise in extortion cases is concerning. The provincial police are now focusing on strategies to tackle this issue. The collaboration between the police and the community remains a top priority.
In the fight against crime, the police force of Limpopo is committed to ensuring safety and security for all residents. The continuous support from the community and the dedication of the police force are essential components of their strategy. In summary, while Limpopo celebrates a decrease in crime, the rise in extortion is a challenge that requires immediate attention. The province’s proactive approach and community involvement are key to maintaining safety and addressing new threats.
The police force is determined to build on its success and continue its efforts to keep Limpopo one of the safest provinces in South Africa. Collaboration between the community and the police remains vital to achieving this goal. As the province moves forward, the focus will be on maintaining the overall decrease in crime while addressing the rise in extortion. The dedication of the police and the support of the community will be crucial in achieving these objectives.
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