Young people believe crime in SA carries little to no consequence

Some young South Africans argue that the country’s low conviction rate sends a disturbing message that criminal acts often go unpunished, thereby undermining the deterrent effect of the justice system.

This concern follows a recent case in the City of Tshwane, where officials accused of stealing a transformer worth R7 million were granted bail by the Atteridgeville Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

Thomas Baloyi and Daniel Kubayi were each granted bail of R30,000, while Siphiwe Mahlangu was released on R35,000 bail.

Another suspect, believed to be the potential buyer of the stolen transformer, is scheduled to apply for bail on Friday.

Speaking to YNews, a young resident from Atteridgeville said the combination of high crime rates and low conviction rates gives the impression that looting public funds has little to no consequences.

He described the justice system as biased and unfair.

Many South Africans have called for all corrupt officials to be held accountable, advocating for stricter sentences to deter corruption.

There is also a widespread belief that corruption is endemic among public officials, which is a serious national concern.

Others say the low conviction rate contributes to a sense of insecurity in their communities.

Some young people argue that the only way to address crime and corruption effectively is by removing the African National Congress (ANC) from power.

A Tshwane father blamed his son’s addiction to the drug nyaope on South Africa’s high unemployment rate, lamenting the “irreversible damage” caused by the ANC’s governance.

YNews also spoke with another young resident, who said that corruption among city officials has severely damaged Tshwane’s reputation and is crippling the country’s progress.

Written by: Odirile Rabalao