Crime stats coming on Thursday

Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa will release the national crime statistics on Thursday, his office says.

The announcement would also be attended by Deputy Police Minister Maggie Sotyu and National Commissioner Riah Phiyega.

The statistics would be for the period April 1, 2011, to March 30, 2012, said spokesman Zweli Mnisi.

"The statistics provide a systematic assessment of the state of crime in the country as well as an opportunity to review and improve on strategies that are in place to fight crime."

He said the SA Police Service would release its annual report at the same time.