Hon Speaker, the ANC has done the country proud and we salute them for the good work. For the first time in the history of the release of crime statistics by the South African Police Service, SAPS, the murder figure, which has been inconsistent, fell below the 16 000 mark. For the first time in five years, the figure for the "trio of crimes" has decreased.
These statistics validate the ANC's determination to actively combat serious and violent crimes by being tougher on criminals and organised syndicates. In this respect, the ANC has committed huge resources to increasing the capacity of the SAPS through strategic recruitment; rigorous training; better remuneration; and equipping and increasing the capacity of the detective service, forensics, prosecution, judicial service and crime intelligence.
However, we note with sadness the increase in crimes against women and children. We call on our communities to strengthen their role in crime prevention. Neighbours should expose criminals in their neighbourhood and community members should refrain from buying stolen goods. The experience of every criminal should validate the maxim that crime does not pay. To the men and women in blue we say: Tau di senang seboka, di siiwa ke none e tlhotsa. Ke a leboga. [Unity is strength. I thank you.]