Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has successfully reduced the country’s overall crime rate by 4.1% in 2025, marking a significant step forward in national security and public safety.
This was announced by Police National Commissioner Vusie Manoma Masango on Thursday, 11 December 2025, during the official opening of the Senior Officers and Senior Civilian Support Staff Members Conference at the Matsapha Police Academy. During this conference, the police aim to review the way they have worked in 2025 and formulate a working strategy for the year 2026.
During the event, National Commissioner Masango reported that a total of 51 899 crimes were recorded this year compared to 54 104 cases in 2024, reflecting the effectiveness of intensified policing strategies. Among serious offences, there was an overall 10.7% decline, with notable reductions in murder (3.4%), armed robbery (42.8%), car theft (7.7%), car hijacking (61.5%), and robbery (16.1%). While some murder cases remain under investigation, including 45 unresolved incidents, these figures demonstrate a committed effort by police to tackle violent crime across the Kingdom.
The Commissioner highlighted specific causes of murder this year, including gangsterism, passion killings, intoxication-related incidents, mob justice, and witchcraft-related cases. He emphasised that such statistics underline the continued need for proactive policing and community engagement.
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains a priority. Commissioner Masango reported a 3% decline in GBV cases, from 6,960 in 2024 to 6,719 in 2025, signalling progress in protecting families and vulnerable groups. The Police Service, together with psychologists, chaplains and welfare officers, continues to provide counselling and support to victims both within communities and among officers’ families.
In the area of stock theft, there was a 15.3% decrease in reported cases. However, the Commissioner noted that 4 156 livestock, valued at over E20.5 million, were stolen across the country this year. Collaborative efforts with the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force, community policing forums, and neighbouring countries have helped prevent further losses and apprehend suspects. Cattle and goats remain the primary targets, with a significant proportion stolen across borders.
The Commissioner also highlighted continued efforts to combat Facata scams, calling for increased public awareness as more citizens continue to fall victim. He encouraged stakeholders to scale up education campaigns to empower the public against such fraudulent schemes.
On financial security, Commissioner Masango warned against risks associated with stokvel savings schemes, noting two recent thefts totalling E92 000. He urged organisers to keep funds in banks to safeguard members’ money.
Traffic management remains a focus, with 6 158 accidents recorded in 2025, up from 5,962 in 2024, and 145 fatal accidents, compared to 132 last year. The Commissioner emphasised the need for continued police vigilance to reduce road fatalities, particularly among pedestrians.
Breakthroughs in serious crime include the arrest of the suspect in the kidnapping and murder of eight-year-old Tifezile Gwebu, illustrating strong cooperation between the public and law enforcement. Additionally, the Anti-Narcotics Unit has made progress in dismantling drug networks, including six murder cases linked to illegal cannabis operations.
The Commissioner praised the government’s support in providing over 100 new motor vehicles and 20 motorcycles, which have improved police visibility, operational efficiency and response times. He also acknowledged ongoing efforts to address police housing shortages, with projects such as the triple-storey flats at Mbabane New Police Camp.
Looking ahead, Commissioner Masango underscored the importance of the Police Service Regulations 2025, which are currently under parliamentary review. Once enacted, these regulations will guide operations, strengthen professionalism and ensure adherence to the rule of law.
In conclusion, Commissioner Masango reaffirmed REPS’s commitment to supporting His Majesty’s Government by executing its mandate with excellence, patriotism and dedication to public safety. He encouraged all officers to continue maintaining high professional standards as the country prepares for the festive season and the upcoming Incwala Ceremony.
Below is a list of how the police worked in reducing crime:
Police Achievements in 2025
Overall Crime Reduction
Total crimes reported: 51 899 in 2025, down from 54 104 in 2024.
Overall crime rate reduction: 4.1%.
Serious Crimes Decline (10.7% overall)
Murder: 3.4% decrease.
Armed robbery: 42.8% decrease.
Car theft: 7.7% decrease.
Car hijacking: 61.5% decrease.
Robbery: 16.1% decrease.
Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
GBV cases decreased by 3%, from 6 960 in 2024 to 6 719 in 2025.
Family dispute-related murders: 25 cases.
Passion killings: 17 cases.
Stock Theft
Overall reduction: 15.3% compared to last year.
Total livestock stolen: 4 156 (valued at E20 579 140).
Cattle stolen: 1 689 (E17 315 250).
Goats stolen: 2 378 (E3 104 280).
Arrests made: 61 suspects; missing livestock: 3 532.
Facata Scam Investigations
Significant progress in dismantling facata scam syndicates.
Increase in arrests and investigative activity.
Stokvel Safety Awareness
Police advised savings schemes to secure funds in banks; reported theft cases: 2 cases, totalling E92 000.
Traffic Management
Total road accidents: 6 158 (up from 5 962 in 2024).
Fatal accidents: 145 (up from 132).
Pedestrian fatalities: 95 (up from 67).
Breakthroughs in Serious Crimes
Arrest of the suspect in the murder of eight-year-old Tifezile Gwebu.
Anti-Narcotics Unit conducted nationwide operations, destroying cannabis fields and arresting dealers.
Six murder cases linked to narcotics activity addressed.
Operational Enhancements
Over 100 new police vehicles and 20 motorcycles provided for improved visibility and response.
Ongoing police housing projects to address accommodation shortages.
Improved infrastructure and resources for records management and evidence collection.
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