Murder dropped by 9,9%, attempted murder by 1,78% and common robberies by 7,8% in the 2003/04 financial year compared with the previous year, National Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi said on Monday.
Serious assaults dropped by 4,3%, common assaults by 2,6% and rape by 1,4%, he told reporters in Pretoria.
Most property-related crimes also declined, including housebreaking at business premises (14.4%), stock theft (13%), housebreaking (8,3%) and car theft (7,3%).
Robbery with aggravating circumstances rose by 3,2% according to the police’s annual report released by Selebi on Monday.
Drug-related crimes increased by 14,2%, the illegal possession of firearms by 4,2%, shoplifting by 2,1% and driving under the influence of alcohol by 10,1%.
The government on Monday also announced an amnesty for the voluntary surrender of illegal arms and ammunition.
Minister of Safety and Security Charles Nqakula said the amnesty will take effect from the beginning of next month and last until December 29.
Nqakula expressed concern at the large number of crimes committed with firearms. — Sapa