"Private Security Rises as Police Struggle Against Crime in South Africa"

In South Africa, violent crime rates are soaring, with an average of 75 killings and 400 robberies reported daily. The police force is struggling to cope, leading to a surge in the private security industry. With over 2.7 million registered private security officers, the industry has grown significantly, now outnumbering the police and military combined. However, these services are only accessible to the wealthy, leaving the majority of South Africans reliant on an under-resourced police force. The government plans to introduce 10,000 new police officers by 2024 to address the issue, while Gauteng province has deployed crime wardens to support police operations.