A new study by the Human Sciences Research Council has revealed shockingly low levels of trust in the country’s police force. According to the study a mere 27% of South Africans have faith in the police. The study shows that between 1998 and 2010, the average level of trust in the police was relatively static.  It ranged between 39% and 42% in most years.

The sharp decline followed the August 2012 Marikana massacre in which the police shot and killed 34 striking miners. Scientist Benjamin Roberts says well-publicised police failures have significant consequences.

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