SAPS reports nearly 16,000 arrests in the past year as part of a nationwide effort to combat child abuse.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) says 15,888 suspects were arrested and 2,773 convicted for crimes against children over the past year, as law enforcement intensifies efforts to combat abuse, exploitation and violence against minors nationwide.
The figures were released as Child Protection Month came to an end, with SAPS reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding children and ensuring offenders face justice.
“The South African Police Service (SAPS), working closely with key stakeholders, continues to intensify its fight against those who perpetrate crimes against children,” the police service said.
SAPS said the annual campaign included coordinated awareness drives, prevention initiatives and targeted operations involving government departments, civil society organisations and community structures aimed at protecting children from abuse, neglect, trafficking and sexual violence.
