WC crime statistics prompt calls for devolution of policing powers

CAPE TOWN - Calls for the devolution of policing powers are once again being made, following the release of Western Cape crime statistics.

One thousand and 68 people were killed in the Western Cape between January and March this year, which is a drop from one thousand 112 for the same period, a year ago.

The figures released on Monday also show an increase in gender-based violence and arson cases in the province.

The Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape has been calling for the devolution of certain policing powers for at least three years now, an idea shot down by President Cyril Ramaphosa previously.

The call was again made by Community Safety and Police Oversight MEC Anroux Marais during the release of the province’s crime statistics.

"SAPS is understaffed, we know it all, and it's not only the boots on the ground, it is also equipment and everything that goes with it. So that is a problem, we are working on the devolution of powers," said Marais.

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has also recently indicated that he'll be writing to Parliament's police portfolio committee to support the proposal for devolution of police powers.