As of 2024, Libya was the North African country with the highest crime index, achieving **** index points. The index measures the level of crime in a given country or city. Algeria followed with a score of **** (moderate level). In contrast, Tunisia registered the lowest crime index in North Africa in that year.

In 2024, South Africa ranked first in the crime index among African countries, with a score of **** index points. Nigeria was the second most dangerous country on the continent, obtaining **** points. The index evaluates the overall crime levels in a specific country. Several African countries scored between ** and ** points, indicating high crime levels. Escalating concerns: South Africans worry about crime and violence In 2024, South Africa had one of the highest proportions of respondents expressing concerns about crime and violence compared to other countries participating in an online study. Throughout the period examined, the percentage of participants worried about violence peaked at ** percent in March 2023. The escalating levels of violent crime currently witnessed in the country has caused this significant rise in concerned respondents. South Africa's organized crime landscape In 2023, South Africa ranked the ************* in organized crime compared to its African counterparts. The continent's most prevalent organized criminal activity was **************************************. Moreover, from a regional perspective, Southern African countries had the lowest organized crime rate.

According to the organized crime index, financial crimes were the most prevalent criminal market in North Africa in 2023, obtaining **** index points. Cannabis trading and human smuggling followed as the main types of crime. Overall, North Africa had the third highest level of criminality on the continent as of 2023.

According to the organized crime index, state-embeddedd actors were the most prevalent criminal actors in North Africa in 2023, obtaining **** index points. Criminal networks and foreign actors followed as the main perpetrators of organized crime. As of the same year, financial crimes was the main criminal market in the region.

In addition to police-reported incidents that involve a hate crime motivation, there are four specific offences listed as hate propaganda and hate crimes in the Criminal Code of Canada: advocating genocide; incitement of hatred in a public place that is likely to lead to a breach of the peace [public incitement of hatred]; willful promotion of hatred, all when directed against an identifiable group, and; mischief motivated by hate in relation to property primarily used for religious worship.Depending on the level of evidence at the time of the incident, police can record the incident as either a “suspected” or “confirmed” hate-motivated crime. As more information is gathered, incidents are reviewed and verified and as a result, their status may be reclassified. Suspected hate crimes may include criminal incidents that cannot be confirmed as hate crimes, but for which there is sufficient evidence to suspect that they are motivated by hate, e.g., hate graffiti where no accused has been identified.To ensure personal privacy, occurrence locations have been aggregated to the corresponding neighbourhoods and Statistics Canada census tract areas. The crime statistics published are accurate on the day that they were produced. Due to ongoing police investigations and internal data quality control efforts, this information is subject to change, including addition, deletion and reclassification of any and all data.Date created: July 27th, 2023Update frequency: AnnuallyAccuracy: The Ottawa Police provides this information in good faith but provides no warranty, nor accepts any liability arising from any incorrect, incomplete or misleading information or its improper use.Attributes: The attributes in this table represent fields in the Ottawa Police Records Management System (RMS). NOTE: In partnership with Statistics Canada and the Canadian Association of Chief’s of Police, hate crime type and motivation variables are in the process of being updated to better reflect the nature of the incident and modernize language to current standards. 1. ID 2. Year 3. Reported Date4. Reported Time 5. Reported Weekday6. Occurrence Date7. Occurrence Time 8. Occurrence Weekday 9. Hate Crime Type:AgeSex ReligionLanguageRace/ Ethnicity Sexual OrientationImmigrants/ Newcomers to CanadaUnknown Motivation10. Primary Hate Crime Motivation:AgeChildren (0-14)Youth (15-24)Adults (25-64)Seniors (65 years and over)Unknown AgeSex MaleFemale Other SexUnknown SexReligionCatholicJewishMuslimOther ReligionUnknown ReligionLanguageEnglishFrenchOther Language Unknown LanguageDisabilityMentalPhysicalOther DisabilityUnknown Disability Race / EthnicityIndigenousArab (West Asian, Middle Eastern and North African Origins)/West AsianBlackChineseEast and Southeast AsianIndia/ Pakistan/ South AsianSouth AsianWhiteMultiple Races/EthnicitiesOther Race/EthnicityUnknown Race/EthnicitySexual-Orientation BisexualHeterosexual Homosexual (Lesbian or Gay)LGBTQ2+Other Sexual OrientationUnknown Sexual OrientationOther Similar Factor (including motivations not otherwise stated above, such as profession or political beliefs)11. Hate Crime IndicatorHC Confirmed (Confirmed hate crime incident)HC Suspected (Suspected hate crime incident)12. Primary UCR13. Primary Offence14. CCJS ClearanceCleared (Solved):Cleared by chargeSuicide of CSCDeath of CSC (not suicide)Death of complainant or witnessReason beyond control of department (policy)Diplomatic immunityCSC under 12 years of ageCommittal of the CSC to a mental health facilityCSC outside Canada, cannot be returnedVictim/complainant requests that no further action is taken CSC involved in other incidentsCSC already sentencedDepartmental discretionDiversionary ProgramIncident cleared by a lesser structureIncident cleared by another agencyNot Cleared – (Unsolved):Insufficient evidence to proceedVictim/complainant declines to proceedOpen (still under investigation)15. ONS Neighbourhood 16. Ottawa Police Sector 17. Ottawa Police Division 18. Census Tract Unique ID19. Census Tract NameAuthor: Ottawa Police ServiceAuthor email: info@ottawapolice.caMaintainer Organization: Business Performance Unit

Abstract

Freedom House South Africa commissioned Social Surveys Africa to implement the Community Level Social Dynamics Survey. The survey was designed to support the intervention "Combatting Drivers of Xenophobic Violence programme," implemented by Freedom House South Africa and partners in 16 communities across South Africa. The survey in ten communities aimed to improve understanding of the factors contributing to social cohesion. It was part of a larger research programme which included in-depth qualitative case studies of all 16 communities.

Geographic coverage

The survey covered 10 communities in 6 provinces (Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Kwa-Zulu Natal, Limpopo, North West and Western Cape) in South Africa.

Analysis unit

Households and individuals

Universe

The survey enumerated residents in the 10 communities aged 18+

Kind of data

Sample survey data

Sampling procedure

The sample sites for the Freedom House Social Cohesion Survey 2016-2017 were drawn from the Combatting Drivers of Xenophobic Violence programme that had been running since March 2016. The programme was conducted in 16 sites in 6 provinces (Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Kwa-Zulu Natal, Limpopo, North West and Western Cape) in South Africa, and is guided by Freedom House's working model of what is likely to lead to an 'at-risk' community. The initial survey design was to conduct the same survey instrument as a baseline and endline 12 months apart in the same 5 sites in order to: a) Inform the intervention to be conducted by the local MXV implementing partner peace building teams, and b) Evaluate whether the intervention had had an effect.

The sites were selected purposively by FH in consultation with SSA. The sites were chosen to encapsulate the various contexts in terms of settings, that is, types of settlements (rural, peri-urban and urban) and geographical spread across provinces. After the completion of the first phase in mid-2016 the design was changed so that the second phase would be implemented in five new sites rather than returning to the same sites. This was because: a) The timing of the intervention and the study: the intervention had already been active for a longer period, so the survey field work could not be taken as a baseline b) The timeframe of measuring impact would have to be longer than 12 months c) Phase 1 field work took place just before local government elections, which is a very particular period in which to ask community residents about political participation and perceptions, so findings would not be comparable with other periods of time.

The total sample of sites was therefore 10 out of the 16 possible intervention sites. Within each broad intervention site, specific wards or sections of wards were purposively sampled by FHSA, as shown in Table 1, based on the following criteria: • Areas where the intervention was taking place • Areas representing a diversity of settlement types within the site, e.g. informal and formal housing areas; areas with predominantly Black or 'Coloured' residents; commercial farming areas, township areas and formal 'town' areas. • Excluding extremely dangerous or hard to access sites, such as the Glebeland Hostel in Durban South.

Mode of data collection

Face-to-face [f2f]

The global private contract security services market, valued at $238.49 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by increasing concerns about personal and corporate safety, escalating crime rates in urban areas, and the growing demand for security solutions across diverse sectors. The market's compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4% indicates a consistent expansion over the forecast period (2025-2033). Key growth drivers include the rising adoption of advanced security technologies like video surveillance and access control systems, the outsourcing trend by businesses seeking to reduce operational costs and enhance security effectiveness, and an increasing need for specialized security services like alarm monitoring and armored transport, particularly in high-risk environments. The residential segment is expected to witness significant growth fueled by rising disposable incomes and increased awareness of home security. Geographically, North America and Europe currently hold substantial market shares, owing to established security infrastructures and higher security spending. However, developing economies in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa are poised for substantial growth due to rapid urbanization and economic expansion, creating new opportunities for private security providers. Competition is intense, with established global players like G4S, Securitas AB, and ADT Corporation vying for market share alongside regional players. The market segmentation reveals significant opportunities across various application areas. The commercial and industrial sector constitutes a substantial portion of the market, driven by the need to protect assets, personnel, and sensitive information. Government and institutional bodies represent another significant segment, requiring specialized security services for critical infrastructure and public safety. While the residential segment is currently smaller, its potential for growth is considerable as awareness of home security systems increases and the affordability of these systems improves. Within the types of services offered, alarm monitoring is a dominant segment, benefiting from technological advancements and increased integration with smart home systems. Armored transport, private investigation, and other specialized services cater to specific market niches, further diversifying the market landscape. Challenges facing the industry include stringent regulatory requirements, intense competition, and the need to adapt to evolving technological advancements to maintain a competitive edge. The forecast period will likely witness consolidation within the industry, with larger players acquiring smaller firms to expand their geographic reach and service offerings.

Problem Statement

Global terrorism is described as the activities involving violence and crime with the intention to promote religious or political ideologies across the world. Global terrorism mainly consists of violence, threats and intimidation for pressurizing the government, International group or community in general. Global Terrorism is a serious threat to the international community. Including, western individuals travelling or living abroad overseas and a substantial threat to indigenous individuals located near, or within unstable regions or areas of terrorist activity.

Globally, every region has recorded a higher average impact of terrorism in recent years than the early 2000s. The increase in the impact of terrorism was greatest felt in the Middle East and North Africa, followed by sub-Saharan Africa.

There is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally, especially against western interests and nationals from groups, or individuals motivated by the recent conflicts in these areas.

What you have to do…

As a security/defense analyst, try to find out the hot zone of terrorism. Handle the missing value, Do compare the various region.... visualize it and showing it on global map would be better to understand.

The global prisoner transport vehicle market is a niche but significant sector, projected to reach a value of $2513.7 million in 2025, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.8% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by several factors. Increasing crime rates and stricter law enforcement globally necessitate efficient and secure prisoner transportation. Furthermore, a rising demand for enhanced safety features within these vehicles, including improved security systems and reinforced designs, fuels market expansion. Government initiatives focused on upgrading infrastructure and improving the safety of prisoner transportation also contribute significantly. The market is segmented by vehicle type (bus-style and van-style) and application (prisons, detention centers, and detention facilities). Bus-style vehicles cater to large-scale transfers, while van-style vehicles are preferred for smaller transports. The demand is geographically diverse, with North America and Europe currently holding substantial market shares due to established infrastructure and stringent security regulations. However, growth in developing economies in Asia-Pacific and Middle East & Africa is expected, fueled by increasing urbanization and rising crime rates in these regions. The competitive landscape includes both established players like Babcock and Ford Motor Company, and specialized manufacturers like Matthews Specialty Vehicles and Setina Manufacturing, each offering vehicles with varying levels of security features and technological integrations. The market is likely to see further consolidation and innovation in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for technologically advanced and cost-effective prisoner transport solutions. The integration of GPS tracking, remote monitoring systems, and improved communication technologies are expected to be key drivers in the future. Regulatory compliance and safety standards will remain crucial factors shaping the market trajectory, demanding continued advancements in vehicle design and security protocols.

Snapshot img

Digital Evidence Management Market Size 2024-2028

The digital evidence management market size is forecast to increase by USD 2.31 billion at a CAGR of 7.5% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key trends. One of the primary drivers is the increasing demand for consolidated crime databases to enhance investigative efficiency. Additionally, the advent of mobile-based solutions is gaining traction, allowing law enforcement agencies to collect, store, and analyze evidence on-the-go. However, the high implementation and maintenance costs associated with these systems pose a challenge to smaller organizations and agencies. 
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), deep learning, and blockchain technologies enhances evidence collection, analysis, and integrity. In the US and North America, these trends are shaping the landscape, with a focus on advanced technologies and integration with other law enforcement systems to streamline processes and improve overall effectiveness.

What will be the Size of the Digital Evidence Management Market During the Forecast Period?

Request Free Sample

The market encompasses solutions and services that assist law enforcement agencies and legal officers in collecting, storing, managing, and presenting during criminal investigations and legal proceedings. With the proliferation of digital technologies, such as smartphones and internet connectivity, the volume continues to grow exponentially. This has led to challenges in managing backlogs, preventing misplacement, misuse, redundancy, data tampering, and ensuring the integrity and authenticity.
Digital evidence management solutions address these challenges by streamlining data acquisition, data analysis, and data reporting. They provide procedural and legal guidelines to ensure the proper handling throughout the evidence lifecycle. These solutions enable forensic analysts to efficiently collect, store, and manage it, reducing the risk of misplacement or misuse. Additionally, they enable the secure presentation in legal proceedings, ensuring compliance with legal guidelines and maintaining the evidentiary chain of custody.

How is this Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Component

  Software
  Services
  Hardware


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  APAC

    China
    Japan


  Europe

    UK


  South America



  Middle East and Africa

By Component Insights

The software segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Digital evidence management software plays a crucial role in criminal investigations by facilitating the collection, storage, and analysis. This software enables law enforcement agencies to acquire, manage, and report, addressing issues of backlogs, misplacement, misuse, redundancy, data tampering, and manipulation. The software integrates with various digital investigation tools, including forensic analysis software, legal guidelines, and procedural guidelines, ensuring evidence integrity and authenticity.

AI, ML, and blockchain technologies are increasingly being adopted to enhance evidence analytics, visualization, and tracking. The software market is expected to grow due to the increasing use of digital technologies in law enforcement, the rise of cybersecurity threats, and the need for workflow streamlining and expert skills. The software supports various collection methods, including digital devices, cloud-based solutions, and IoT, and offers features such as evidence reporting, evidence tracking, and system integration.

Get a glance at the Digital Evidence Management Industry report of share of various segments Request Free Sample

The software segment was valued at USD 2.26 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 36% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

For more insights on the market share of various regions, Request Free Sample

Digital evidence management plays a crucial role in criminal investigations, particularly in North America where the market holds a significant presence. Agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) have adopted management software for tasks including evidence description, storage, analysis, and reporting. The US and Canada lead in management penetration due to substantial investments in IT network infrastruc

Political stability in North Africa remains a significant challenge, with all countries in the region recording negative index values in the political stability and absence of violence/terrorism index. As of 2023, Sudan recorded the lowest stability score in the region at -2.47. The country has seen a sharp and sustained decline in stability since 2020. This was in the aftermath of the 2019 protests, which led to the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir. The political situation worsened further in April 2023 as a result of the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), triggering widespread displacement and insecurity. Corruption, repression, and media control A lack of political freedoms and press freedom plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of instability. According to the World Press Freedom Index in 2024, countries like Egypt and Algeria fall into the categories of a “very serious” or “difficult” situation for media freedom, scoring 25.1 and 41.98 out of 100, respectively. Even relatively higher scorers such as Tunisia and Morocco remain in the “difficult” range. Limited press freedom and government control over information reduce transparency and restrict public oversight. This environment facilitates systemic corruption, as independent media are unable to investigate or report on abuses of power. Repressive state measures, including censorship and legal threats against journalists, further undermine institutional checks and balances. Combined with weak governance and the influence of organized crime, these dynamics contribute to persistent political instability across the region. Organized criminal networks The consequences of restricted transparency are reflected in high levels of perceived corruption and deeply embedded criminal networks. According to the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, Libya scored just 13 out of 100, while Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia all scored below 40, indicating high public concern about government corruption. These concerns align with findings from the ENACT Organized Crime Index, which highlights the dominance of state-embedded actors and criminal networks in the region. With scores of 7.67 and 5.67 respectively, the data suggests that criminal activities are often closely tied to political and institutional power structures. This interconnection between corrupt governance and organized crime further erodes public trust and reinforces the perception, and reality, of chronic instability across North Africa.

Snapshot img

Personal Safety Alarms Market Size 2024-2028

The personal safety alarms market size is forecast to increase by USD 112 mn at a CAGR of 10.48% between 2023 and 2028.

Personal safety alarms have gained significant traction in recent years due to escalating concerns for individual security. Key factors fueling market growth include the increasing number of incidents leading to personal harm and the subsequent need for effective safety measures. Moreover, governments worldwide are taking initiatives to ensure the safety of their citizens, thereby driving the demand for personal safety alarms. Additionally, the availability of alternate self-defense products, such as pepper spray and stun guns, has led to a shift in consumer preferences towards more advanced safety solutions. This market analysis report delves into these trends and provides insights into the growth prospects of the market.

What will be the Size of the Personal Safety Alarms Market During the Forecast Period?

Request Free SampleThe personal safety alarm market encompasses a range of devices designed to address various safety concerns for individuals. These include keychain alarms emitting a loud noise or siren, medical alert pendants with emergency assistance features, and vehicle safety alarms. The market's growth is driven by increasing personal safety concerns In the wake of crime statistics and incidents, as well as advancements in technology. IoT technology and smart wearables are playing an increasingly significant role, with GPS tracking and real-time emergency contact features becoming more common. Other safety devices, such as personal safety whistles and panic buttons, also contribute to the market's expansion.The commercial sectors, including the elderly safety and security industries, are significant consumers of these products due to heightened safety concerns. Additionally, the integration of advanced technology, such as Swann ActiveResponse, is expected to further boost market growth. Overall, the personal safety alarm market is a medium-sized and developing industry that continues to gain traction as individuals seek innovative solutions to address their safety needs.

How is this Personal Safety Alarms Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The personal safety alarms industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. Distribution ChannelOfflineOnlineTypeMobile phone appStand-alone devicesVehicle basedOthersGeographyNorth AmericaCanadaUSEuropeGermanyFranceAPACChinaSouth AmericaMiddle East and Africa

By Distribution Channel Insights

The offline segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Personal safety alarms represent a significant market, with offline distribution accounting for the largest share due to consumers' preference for physically examining products before purchase. Specialty stores, offering a wide range of personal safety devices, play a crucial role in this segment's growth. Key product types include gadgets, keychains, medical alert pendants, and vehicle safety alarms. Advanced technology features, such as loud noise, sirens, emergency assistance, GPS tracking, and emergency contact features, enhance the functionality of these devices. Safety concerns, driven by crime statistics and gun-related injuries, fuel demand for personal safety whistles and advanced technologies like Swann ActiveResponse. Wearable technologies, IoT, and smart wearables are emerging trends, with home security systems like SimpliSafe and commercial sectors also adopting safety devices.Despite privacy concerns, the market is expected to grow, driven by safety technology advancements and the integration of emergency message and connected wearables for women's safety. Crime rates and industrial environments necessitate data security measures, while shipping delays and strategic decisions impact market growth. In conclusion, personal safety alarms cater to various sectors, ensuring protection, monitoring, and emergency assistance.

Get a glance at the market report of various segments Request Free Sample

The Offline segment was valued at USD 83.80 mn in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 49% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

For more insights on the market size of various regions, Request Free Sample

The market in North America is expected to maintain its dominance In the global market due to escalating crime statistics, particularly against vulnerable demographics such as women,

The global forensic testing market size was valued at USD XXX million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2033. Increasing demand for forensic testing in criminal investigations, technological advancements, and rising awareness about forensic science are major factors driving market growth. Additionally, increasing crime rates and the importance of DNA profiling in criminal investigations are contributing to the market's expansion. The forensic testing market is segmented based on application, type, and region. By application, the market is divided into medical examination, coroners, government, law enforcement agencies, and others. By type, the market is categorized into DNA profiling, fingerprinting analysis, drug analysis, firearm analysis, and others. Regionally, the market is analyzed across North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East & Africa, and Asia Pacific. North America is expected to hold the largest market share due to the presence of well-established forensic laboratories and advanced technologies. However, Asia Pacific is projected to exhibit the highest CAGR during the forecast period owing to the growing population and increasing crime rates in the region.

According to the data provided, the market size for Active Deterrence Security Camera is projected to reach XXX million with a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2033. The market is driven by factors such as increasing crime rates, growing awareness of home and business security, and technological advancements. However, restraints include privacy concerns, high installation costs, and false alarms. The market is segmented by application (residential, commercial, industrial), type (bullet camera, dome camera), and region (North America, South America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Asia Pacific). North America is the largest regional market, followed by Asia Pacific. Major companies include Lorex, Montavue, Reolink, Swann, Dahua Technology, Hikvision, Arlo, Uniview, Sunell, and SCW. The report provides a detailed analysis of the market, including key trends, drivers, restraints, and challenges, as well as profiles of leading companies.

The active deterrence security camera market is highly concentrated, with a few major players accounting for a significant share of the market. These players include Lorex, Montavue, Reolink, Swann, Dahua Technology, Hikvision, Arlo, Uniview, Sunell, and SCW. The market is characterized by innovation, with new features and technologies being introduced regularly. Key trends in the market include the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), the growing popularity of cloud-based services, and the increasing demand for higher-resolution cameras. Regulations play a significant role in the active deterrence security camera market. For example, in the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued guidelines on the use of facial recognition technology. These guidelines require companies to obtain informed consent from individuals before collecting their facial data. The impact of regulations on the market is expected to increase in the coming years. Product substitutes for active deterrence security cameras include traditional security cameras, motion-activated lights, and security systems. However, active deterrence security cameras offer several advantages over these substitutes, such as the ability to deter crime, provide real-time alerts, and record video footage.

In 2023, Tunisia achieved a crime index of 44.6 points. The index measures the level of crime in a given country or city and ranges from zero, indicating low levels of crime, to 100, very high levels. Thus, crime in Tunisia was considered as being on a moderate level in 2021. In the period examined, the index peaked at over 47 points in 2014. In 2016 only, the index was below 40 points, meaning that crime levels were low. Overall, Tunisia had the lowest levels of crime in North Africa.

As of 2023, the African country with the highest rate of sexual violnce was Botswana. It had 131.7 cases out of 100,000 inhabitants. The second highest rate was South Africa. It is important to note that these statistics relfect reported crime however, not all crime is reported.

Kidnapping cases in South Africa have reached alarming levels, with a total of ****** incidents reported in 2023/2024. This represents an ** percent increase from the previous year, highlighting a growing concern for public safety across the nation. Gauteng province, home to major cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria, recorded the highest number of kidnappings at ***** cases, followed by KwaZulu-Natal with ***** cases.
Ransom and extortion drive kidnapping surge The rise in kidnappings appears to be driven by organized crime, with ransom-related abductions being the most common motive. In a select sample from the second quarter, *** kidnappings were linked to ransom demands, while ** cases were associated with extortion. This trend suggests a quarterly increase in kidnapping incidents, pointing to a persistent and evolving threat to public safety. The Moroka area in Gauteng province reported the highest number of kidnapping offenses, with nearly *** cases, followed by Orange Farms with over *** cases. The South African Police Services (SAPS) have reported that most cases were carried out during aggravated robberies such as hijackings and armed robberies at homes, businesses and public areas.
Regional context and broader implications South Africa's kidnapping rate of **** per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023 was the highest among countries in Africa, surpassing Benin, which held the second-highest rate. This underscores the severity of the issue within the broader African context. The kidnapping crisis in South Africa occurs against a backdrop of wider regional instability, with countries in the Sahel like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso experiencing significant conflict exposure, affecting between ***** and ** percent of their populations. In this semi-arid region of west and north-central Africa, kidnappings are used as a strategic warfare tool and perpetrated for financial gain, which proved to be a lucrative method to help fund some of al-Qaeda affiliates located on the continent.

This statistic depicts the share of institutions operating programs anti-financial crime programs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in 2018, broken down by program type. During the survey period, ***** percent of respondents replied that they were running know your customer (KYC) programs.

Mauritius is classified as the most democratic country in Africa. As of 2023, Mauritius' democracy was given **** points, ranking as the only country in the whole continent as fully democratic. The index is based, according to the source, on the electoral process and pluralism, the government functions, political participation, and culture as well as civil liberties. Many Sub-Saharan and North African political systems are among the least democratic countries in the world. Burundi has the most authoritarian regime in Africa, with a score of **** points, while countries such as Botswana, Cabo Verde, South Africa, Namibia, and Lesotho fell within the "hybrid regimes", with a score ranging from **** points to **** points, meaning that they experience, for example, elections with irregularities, widespread corruption, and harassment of journalists. Democracy and freedom of speech in Sub-Saharan Africa One of the main key indicators of democracy is the ability of individuals to express their opinions freely. African countries varied strongly when it came to freedom of speech, for instance, countries Mauritius, Namibia, and Cabo Verde had high scores in both the democracy index and the civic space openness index in the last years. On the other hand, countries like Djibouti and Equatorial Guinea had relatively low scores in the same indices. Furthermore, in the last few years, several Sub-Saharan African countries faced a huge decline in the freedom index as well, with * out of the ** African countries with the largest decline in the freedom index being from this region. Africa divided: which region had more democracy? North African countries showed poor scores in the democracy index as well. Two-thirds of the countries in this region had a score below * points, indicating authoritarian rule. Even the countries with the highest scores in this region have relatively low scores compared to countries in the Sub-Saharan region.