CAPE TOWN, Nov. 26 (Xinhua) -- South Africa saw a decrease in serious crimes in the third quarter of this year, according to the latest crime statistics released by the police ministry on Monday.

From July 1 to Sept. 30, the 17 categories of community-reported serious crimes, including murder, robbery and carjacking, showed an overall decline of 5.1 percent, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu announced during the release of the quarterly crime statistics.

"Contact crime decreased by 3 percent, property-related crime saw a reduction of 9.9 percent, and other serious crimes decreased by 3.4 percent," Mchunu said.

"Focusing on contact crime, the statistics indicate that murder decreased by 5.8 percent, sexual offenses by 2.5 percent, and robbery with aggravating circumstances by 8.8 percent," he said. "Additionally, rape decreased by 3.1 percent, while robbery at residential premises and non-residential premises decreased by 1.3 percent and 21.1 percent, respectively."

Among the 17 community-reported crime categories monitored, increases were observed only in attempted murder, assault with grievous bodily harm and commercial crime, which rose by 2.2 percent, 1 percent and 18.5 percent, respectively, according to the report.

"Despite these gains, the persistence of high crime rates underscores the urgency of doubling our efforts in law enforcement, prevention, and community involvement," said Mchunu.

The police minister said that more needs to be done, highlighting the importance of collective efforts to tackle crime in the country.

"Crime-fighting requires relentless determination, collaboration, and resourcefulness. The South African Police Service continues to adapt to evolving criminal tactics, leveraging intelligence and technology to stay ahead," he added. Enditem

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