ActionSA has raised concerns about rising levels of violent crime in Gauteng, despite reports of an overall decline in crime in the province.
In a press statement released on 5 March 2026, ActionSA Member of the Gauteng Legislature, John Moodey, said the party had taken note of the latest provincial crime statistics presented by the Gauteng Provincial Police Commissioner for the period October to December 2025.
While the statistics indicate that overall crime in Gauteng declined during the reporting period, Moodey said a closer look at the figures reveals worrying trends that should not be ignored.
According to the statistics, murder cases in the province decreased by 11%. However, attempted murder increased by 6.5% during the same period. In addition, more than 900 cases of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition were recorded within the same quarter.
Moodey said these figures highlight a concerning reality. Violent crime remains a serious threat to residents in the province. He explained that even where certain crime categories show improvement, the rise in attempted murder suggests that levels of violence in communities remain extremely high.
He added that, for many residents, the difference between murder and attempted murder often comes down to chance rather than a real improvement in safety.
Moodey also raised concerns about the continued circulation of illegal firearms, saying criminals armed with illicit weapons are responsible for some of the most violent crimes in Gauteng. These include robberies, hijackings, gang-related violence and shootings that affect communities and threaten the safety of families.
He said the fact that hundreds of illegal firearm cases were recorded in a single quarter shows that government and law enforcement agencies are still struggling to stop the flow of illegal weapons.
ActionSA believes the statistics reveal weaknesses in the Gauteng Provincial Government’s crime prevention strategy. Moodey said the strategy has often relied on headline-grabbing initiatives, such as the Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, instead of focusing on sustainable and lawful policing solutions.
The party has called for stronger coordination between the South African Police Service, metro police departments and community policing structures. It also wants targeted operations aimed at dismantling illegal firearm supply networks.
Moodey further called for greater support and resources for detectives in order to improve investigation capacity and conviction rates, as well as data-driven policing that focuses on crime hotspots and repeat offenders.
He warned that an unsafe Gauteng poses serious economic and social risks to both the province and the country. Moodey said residents deserve to feel safe in their homes, on their streets and in their workplaces.
ActionSA said it will continue to hold the provincial government accountable while advocating for practical solutions that prioritise the safety and protection of all residents.
About The Author
