KZN top cop worried about declining police numbers as population grows

KwaZulu-Natal’s police force has decreased from 25,000 to 19,600 functional officers amid a growing population of over 12 million, raising concerns about public safety.
In the past year, 893 police personnel left for various reasons including retirement, resignation, dismissal, or death, with some recruited by private security firms and VIP protection services.
Despite challenges, crime rates for serious offenses like murder and robbery have decreased, though sexual assault and common assault cases remain a concern.
Police are focusing on community engagement and reducing civil claims against them, while encouraging former officers to support crime-fighting initiatives.