How bad is crime in Johannesburg?

According to the 2025 Crime Index published on Numbeo, Johannesburg is perceived to be the 5th most dangerous city in the world.

Johannesburg’s Crime Conundrum: A City in Crisis

Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic hub, is facing a crippling crime crisis. The city’s residents are living in fear, and the statistics are alarming.

*Causes of Crime*

The root causes of Johannesburg’s crime problem are complex and multifaceted. Poverty, unemployment, and inequality are major contributing factors. The city’s rapid urbanization and influx of migrants have also put a strain on resources and infrastructure.

*Community Responses*

Despite the challenges, Johannesburg’s residents are fighting back. Community-led initiatives, such as neighborhood watches and crime forums, are working to reclaim the city’s streets. The SAPS has also launched various crime-fighting initiatives, including increased patrols and intelligence-driven operations.

*A Call to Action*

Johannesburg’s crime crisis requires a collective response. Citizens, businesses, and government must work together to address the underlying causes of crime and create a safer, more secure city for all.

Johannesburg’s crime landscape is a complex and ever-evolving issue. According to the latest crime statistics released by the South African Police Service (SAPS), Quarter 2 of 2024 saw a mixed bag of results.¹

*Decreases in Certain Crime Categories*

On a positive note, carjackings decreased by 9.4%, with 4,788 incidents recorded in Q2 of 2024/2025, compared to 5,149 in the previous year. Truck hijackings also saw a significant drop of 15.3%, with 459 incidents in 2024/2025, down from 542 in 2023. Residential burglaries decreased by 3,520 incidents, from 38,151 in Q2 of 2023/2024 to 34,631 in Q2 of 2024/2025.

*Concerning Increases in Other Areas*

However, not all crime categories saw a decline. Commercial crime increased by 18.5%, with 36,300 incidents in 2024/2025, up from 30,630 in 2023/2024. Kidnapping also saw a disturbing rise of 7.6%.

*Contact Crimes: A Mixed Picture*

When it comes to contact crimes, which are crimes against the person, the statistics show a mix of decreases and increases. Murder decreased by 5.8%, with 6,945 incidents in Q2 of 2024/2025, down from 7,345 in the same period of 2023/2024. Common assault also declined by 1.4%. However, attempted murder increased by 2.2%, while contact sexual offences saw a 1.2% rise.

Overall, Johannesburg’s crime situation remains a pressing concern. While there have been decreases in certain crime categories, the increases in commercial crime and kidnapping are alarming. It’s essential for the city’s residents, businesses, and law enforcement agencies to continue working together to address these challenges and create a safer, more secure environment for all.