South Africa has a reputation for being a beautiful country with diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and a rich history. Unfortunately, it is also known for its high crime rates, which have made it necessary for many people to invest in personal protective gear, including armour vests. This article will explore why armour vests are essential in South Africa, using crime statistics, recent events such as the Durban riots, and farm killing statistics.
According to the latest crime statistics released by the South African Police Service (SAPS), there were over 2.4 million reported crimes in the country in the 2019/2020 financial year. This figure represents an increase of 1.4% from the previous year. The report also shows that murder rates increased by 1.4%, while sexual offences increased by 1.7%. These figures are alarming and demonstrate the need for personal protective gear in South Africa.
One of the most recent events that highlighted the need for armour vests in South Africa was the Durban riots that occurred in July 2021. The riots were sparked by the arrest of former President Jacob Zuma, who was sentenced to 15 months in prison for contempt of court. The riots quickly spread to other parts of the country, resulting in widespread looting, arson, and violence. According to the South African government, the riots resulted in the deaths of at least 337 people, with over 2,000 arrests made. Many people were left homeless, and many businesses were destroyed. The violence and chaos that ensued during the riots demonstrate the need for individuals to invest in personal protective gear, including armour vests.
Another issue that has made armour vests necessary in South Africa is the high number of farm killings in the country. Farm killings refer to violent crimes committed against farmers and farm workers in rural areas. According to the Transvaal Agricultural Union, there were 68 farm murders in the country in 2020, up from 49 in 2019. These statistics are alarming and demonstrate the need for farmers and farm workers to protect themselves with personal protective gear, including armour vests.
The use of armour vests in South Africa is not limited to farmers and farm workers. Many people living in urban areas also invest in personal protective gear to protect themselves from violent crime. It is not uncommon for people to wear armour vests when traveling to high-risk areas or working in dangerous professions such as security or law enforcement.
The use of armour vests in South Africa is becoming used more due to the security risks encountered.