Crime in South Africa is being called the central concern as the country prepares for the crowds expected during the 2010 World Cup beginning next June. About $162 million will be spent on special police and security measures near World Cup venues throughout the tournament. But despite the effort, South Africa's crime statistics have many in the international community worried about the country's ability to maintain safety.
About 50 people are murdered a day -- more than in the United States, which has six times South Africa's 50 million population. There were officially 36,190 rapes in 2007-2008 and 14,201 carjackings, but many crimes go unreported.
Crime is central problem for 2010 World CupReuters
June 9, 2009
