Pretoria - Cabinet has welcomed the release of the national crime statistics, saying it illustrates government's commitment to seriously fight against the scourge of crime.
Briefing the media on Thursday after the latest Cabinet meeting, government spokesperson Themba Maseko said police and civil society needed to work harder in order to keep the crime levels low.
"The collaboration between the police and the various partners must be strengthened in order to achieve the target of reducing the crime rate by 7% annually," said Maseko.
Government, he said, also welcomed the role played by communities, civil society and the business community in the fight against crime.
Maseko affirmed government would continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens.
Crime statistics, released by Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa last week, revealed that most crimes have decreased in the country.
Murder, attempted murder and sexual offences have all declined but house robberies have climbed by 2.7 percent which, although an increase, is an improvement from an average of 25 percent rise over the past five years.
The decline in murder was attributed to several new police efforts, including increased visibility and an increased budget which has allowed for more training and a larger contingent of police officers.
Aggravated robbery has decreased by 7.5 percent, while bank robbery has also enjoyed some relief.
"The statistics highlighted the progress the country was making in the fight against crime and were a tangible indication of government's commitment to create a safe society," added Maseko, a view that has been shared by independent crime experts.
