cities that have become synonymous with fraught security landscapes. Cities where the narratives of everyday car thefts, business robberies, and, most alarmingly, cash-in-transit incidents have captured not only the public imagination but also galvanized much-needed national conversations.
These challenges are reflective of the broader dynamics in urban environments at the intersection of population growth, economic pressures, and evolving criminal tactics. This paper discusses the dynamics of the different types of violent crime evolving in cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria and what is being done to promote safer communities for all.
The broader view: what the numbers indicate
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS):
• Cash in transit robberies peaked at 264, marking a 12% rise
• More than 120,000 armed robberies were reported annually
Insights into Motor Vehicle Theft
Car theft is the illegal act of taking away cars, usually in crowded places, at crossroads or outside houses and offices. Typical trends are:
• Cars followed from malls or fuel stops
• Events happening in the morning or evening
• Likes for particular car types common in the resale market
“Drivers are asked to stay aware, alter their habits and tell us about any strange things,” says SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
What are cash-in-transit (CIT) incidents?
The crimes relate to the vehicles that transport cash to ATMs, banks, and retail stores. Incidents may involve a roadblock and use of stolen motor cars and are normally of a quick nature and premeditated.
Included in the security measures being adopted are:
• More escort support for vehicles
• Wiser routing to steer clear of predictability
• Joining hands between SAPS and private security companies
“Sharing information is key. The more we share information, the more we can prevent these incidents,” explained a senior officer of the CIT task force.
Theft at residential and business premises
There has been reported theft in homes, stores, and small businesses in some urban areas continuing to increase is a matter, an incident that can cause alarm especially when it hinders the people in their daily activities.
Factors to this trend is:
• Low visibility of law enforcement in some areas
• Inadequate access to on-time emergency services
• Financial difficulties undergone by the dwellers and local firms
Major causes
1. Economic challenges
Jobless, particularly among the youth, is one of the primary reasons for the upsurge of criminal activities. There is a need for economic empowerment and skills development. 2. Urban inequalities
There is a large disparity between neighborhoods that have well-advanced security infrastructure and those that do not have enough resources to support security.3. Inadequate police officers’ capacity
High caseloads and limited resources at times affect the response and the quality of investigations though SAPS is actively involved.
4. Organized crime groups
These may be involved in some forms of criminal activities in the cities, making them difficult to prevent and trace.
Chart: Trends of Urban Crime in South Africa (2015-2024)
Adapted from reports by SAPS and ISS Africa
Responses from the authorities and communities
National
• Operation Shanela: Targeting the high-crime areas in the urban precincts
• Integrated crime intelligence centres: Improving coordination
• Gun amnesty programmes to decrease the proliferation of illegal firearms
At the municipal and community levels
• Community policing forums
• The installation of CCTV and smart lighting
• Neighbourhood watch and security applications
“When the local residents and the police work together, we have seen great results,” said Lindiwe Mazibuko, the community safety coordinator for Pretoria.
Pathways to safer cities
The challenge is great, but much is already being done – and much more can be possible:
✅ Improved urban planning
• Better-lit streets
• Safe public transport
• Inclusive development for the diminution of social inequalities
✅ Empowerment of youth
• Programs of job creation
• Provision for training and mentoring
• Growth of sports, arts, and educational activities
✅ Strengthening of the justice system
• Better investigations and court processes
• Protection to victims and witnesses
• Digital tools investment to track the cases in an effective manner
Violent urban crime is a thorny issue that calls for a multifaceted approach: one that is firm when necessary, but always geared towards finding sustainable solutions. By building stronger partnerships, addressing inequalities and investing in the development of its staff, South Africa’s cities will become safer and more welcoming for all who live there.
There is no single answer, but through a combination of prevention, innovation and community resilience, progress is not only possible – it is already happening.
FAQs
Car thefts are increasing in the urban setup due to organized networks, some areas without police visibility, and economic pressures, so they are now increasing patrols in the high-risk areas.
A cash-in-transit incident is an attempt to intercept a vehicle and steal the money it is carrying; most are planned and over very quickly.
Personal protection comes from being aware of the surroundings, not being predictable, and joining in local security groups or neighborhood patrols.
4. City Effective Response?
Yes, targeted actions, technology, and stronger community partnerships — but more investment.
5. Impact on Tourism or Business?
While incidents do occur, major attractions and business centers mostly remain safe: with a visible security presence.
6. Firearms?
SAPS initiates continuous disarmament campaigns and, in collaboration with the private sector, aims to curb illegal usage of firearms.
Can urban crime be lessened?
Yes. With steady work, wise plans, and community
help, violence can be cut — as seen in other cities
around the world.
