CRIME STATS | Alcohol the biggest contributor to crime

Police minister Bheki Cele said contact crime was “very high” in communities with many liquor outlets.

Between April and June, 227 people were killed in places of entertainment, such as taverns, pubs and bars, with liquor being involved in 749 murder cases.

“The reality is that liquor was, during this reporting period, involved in more than 4,000 cases of assault GBH. In 1,212 rape cases, alcohol was involved in the commission of the crime.

“We urge communities, civil society, religious organisations and various community organisations to look at addressing the role liquor is playing in communities and as a crime contributor.”

TimesLIVE

MOUTH WATERING: Liquor was involved in 749 murder cases in SA during the first quarter of the 2022/2023 financial year.
Image: 123rf/Jakub Godja