Thank you, Chair. Today's crime statistics really shows incremental improvement across the board. So, South Africans do have room to be cautiously optimistic. Crime is something which affects every South African, and a decrease in crime is obviously something to be welcomed. Crime statistics provide an important assessment of how well government is managing to keep South Africans safe.
When the statistics for next year are released the SAPS' special measures during the Fifa World Cup will, I believe, translate into greater measurable outcomes and demonstrate what happens when safety is a non- negotiable priority of government, and the stress is on visible policing.
The SAPS have made important strides, especially in contact crimes. The murder rate is down by a significant 8,6%, and attempted murder down by 6,1%. Robberies with attempt to inflict grievous bodily harm and secular offences are also down.
Worryingly, residential burglaries and business premises robberies have again increased, by 2,7% and 4,4% respectively. This means that South Africans are unfortunately less safe in their homes than they were in the previous year, and that businesses are more vulnerable to crime.
The DA commends all the brave men and women in the SAPS for their efforts in keeping South Africa safe, and we also proffer our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the 110 police officers who died in the course of duty. Thank you. [Applause.]