Rédaction Africa Links 24 with EDN_Reporter
Published on 2024-03-11 19:21:44
The Kingdom of Eswatini has made significant progress in reducing the murder rate, as reported in the Royal Eswatini Police Services (REPS) 2023/24 performance report by Bahle Gama. The report indicated a 20 percent decrease in murder cases, with 183 cases recorded compared to 231 cases in the previous year. This decline is a positive development, although the report highlighted that the killing of another individual remains a major concern.
The report identified various factors contributing to murder cases, including family disputes, gender-based violence, alcohol abuse, dagga wars, mob justice, and forced ingestion of poisonous substances. The REPS emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach to address these crimes effectively. Despite the decrease in murders, other crimes like rape showed an increase during the same period under review.
Rape, in particular, presents a challenge as it often occurs in private spaces, making it difficult to address through traditional policing methods. The report emphasized the importance of extensive patrols in high-risk areas, public sensitization campaigns, and educational initiatives in schools and communities to encourage victims to report incidents of sexual violence.
Gender-based violence (GBV) was also a significant issue highlighted in the report, with a notable increase in reported cases. The rise in GBV cases was attributed to more incidents being reported rather than being concealed. Efforts to mitigate GBV include education programs in collaboration with stakeholders, awareness campaigns, and prioritized investigations to apprehend offenders in a timely manner.
The REPS also addressed missing persons cases, with a majority of individuals reported missing being found alive. Out of 450 missing persons cases reported, 384 were found alive, 10 were found dead, and 56 individuals remain missing with ongoing investigations. The public is continuously educated and sensitized on promptly reporting missing persons to prevent potential links to serious crimes like murder and human trafficking.
Livestock theft was another significant issue highlighted in the report, with an 11.6 percent increase in cases during the 2023/24 reporting period. Cattle and goats were the most commonly stolen animals, totaling E17.01 million in value. Cross-border syndicates were identified as responsible for many of these thefts, prompting the implementation of intelligence-led interventions and collaborations with neighboring countries to address the issue.
Overall, the REPS is committed to addressing crime and ensuring the safety and security of the citizens of Eswatini. Through a combination of enforcement, education, and collaboration with stakeholders, the police service aims to reduce crime rates, protect vulnerable populations, and uphold the rule of law in the kingdom.
Read the original article on swazidailynews.com
