Hermanus experienced its lowest December crime rate on record, with an overall reduction of 16,3% compared to the same period in 2024, despite tourist numbers doubling during the peak festive season.
The latest crime statistics released by Col Gustaf Tamboer of Hermanus Police Station show dramatic improvements across most categories during what is traditionally the town’s busiest and most challenging month for crime prevention. Contact crimes – including assault, robbery and sexual offences – dropped by 23,6%, while property-related crimes fell by 28,1%. Contact-related crimes decreased by 26,3% and dangerous-weapons offences by 22,7%.
“The most significant improvement was recorded in trio crimes, which plummeted by 50%,” Tamboer stated. “Trio crimes typically include house robbery, business robbery and hijacking.”
However, not all categories showed improvement. Other serious crimes increased by 2,1%, while crimes heavily dependent on police action rose by 35,6%. Dealing in liquor without a licence also increased by 33,3%.
Local authorities attributed the success to coordinated action plans implemented across all law-enforcement entities and social sectors throughout the region.
“This was the best crime picture ever recorded for a December in Hermanus,” said Tamboer. “The results show that our action plans to prevent crime had their desired outcome.
“The achievement is particularly notable given the significant challenges facing the area during the festive season. Tourist numbers doubled compared to previous years, creating heavy traffic congestion entering and exiting the broader Hermanus station precinct.”
Authorities also praised emergency response teams for their effectiveness in handling lost children and parents on beaches, with minimal incidents reported despite the increased visitor numbers. However, the festive period was marred by several drowning incidents, which officials described as “the only sad part” of an otherwise successful crime prevention operation.
The positive crime statistics represent a significant victory for the collaborative efforts of police, municipal services and community crime-prevention initiatives in the popular coastal destination.
