WC crimes stats: Rape remains the leading sexual offence

Crime statistics for the third quarter of the current financial year shows a decrease in the majority of serious crimes in the Western Cape.

But the statistics show an increase in attempted murders, sexual offences and assault cases.

Rape remains the leading sexual offence, with 1,370 cases reported in the province.

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Western Cape Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile said despite the decreases recorded, crime levels remain high in certain communities.

"Of much concern is the prevalence of serious violent crimes that are driven by the availability of illegal firearms and ammunition, drugs. Also of concern is the involvement of youth in criminal activities."

Patekile mentioned some of police's successes during the period from October to December 2025.

"Six hundred and seven illegal firearms were confiscated. On the detection front, 4,095 arrests of serious crimes such as murder, attempted murders, rape, kidnapping, robbery, aggravating assault GBH [gross bodily harm] were reflected."

Patekile said 26 convicts were handed 32 life sentences for serious crimes such as murder and rape.