Police struggle with murder investigations, less than 20% lead to meaningful progress
via The Citizen13 min read
A recent disclosure from the Ministry of Police reveals that a significant majority of murder cases are not being solved, with many going cold early in the investigation process. The South African Police Service Saps aimed for an 11.33% murder detection rate in April 2025, meaning only 720 of 6,351 cases would see substantial progress. Data from the most recent financial year shows that 27 out of 35 high-profile stations had detection rates below 10%, with some as low as 1.4%. The 35 detective branches received a combined R304 million in funding for transport, capital, and assets in the 2024-25 financial year, with Gauteng receiving the largest allocation of R75 million, despite 12 of its 15 listed stations having detection rates below 10%. While some stations like Temba Saps in northern Tshwane recorded higher detection rates of 18%, others like Hillbrow, Jeppe, and Johannesburg Central had rates as low as 2.5%, 1.4%, and 1.8% respectively. Limpopo's Mankweng and Thohoyandou stations saw their detection rates drop significantly, corresponding with a 25% budget reduction. Despite this, the ministry stated that no analysis between funding and outcomes has been conducted, asserting that crimes are investigated regardless of resource status. Police portfolio committee chair Ian Cameron emphasized that proper investigation requires adequate resources such as vehicles, phones, computers, and forensic support. Although detection rates are low, 11 of the 35 stations achieved 100% co
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