Acting Police Minister Gwede Mantashe has announced a significant new budget allocation aimed at intensifying the fight against crime across South Africa. Speaking during a national briefing, Mantashe confirmed an additional R85 million will be directed to the country’s 35 top high-contact crime stations — located in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape, and the Eastern Cape.
The investment targets areas hardest hit by violent crimes, including murder, assault, and robbery, and will be used to bolster resources, improve infrastructure, and enhance police visibility on the ground.
In a bid to strengthen grassroots safety efforts, Community Policing Forums (CPFs) will receive R28 million to boost their operational capacity. An additional R8.5 million has been set aside specifically for public awareness and education campaigns — part of a broader drive to encourage community involvement in crime prevention.
Addressing the growing concern around extortion, Mantashe revealed that of the 2,417 cases reported nationwide, SAPS has already made 1,054 arrests and secured 14 convictions. While acknowledging the progress, he emphasized the need for greater coordination between law enforcement and the justice system to ensure stronger outcomes.
The minister’s budget announcement signals a renewed commitment to tackling South Africa’s escalating crime levels through strategic funding and community partnerships.
