Sporting Events and the Spatial Patterning of Crime in South Africa: Local Interpretations and International Implications

Abstract

In this study we investigate the impact of sporting events on crime levels in Tshwane, South Africa. Using crime data from 2001 to 2006, we examine whether crime levels increase throughout Tshwane as a whole as well as within certain buffer distances around the Loftus Versfeld stadium, on game days compared to non-game days. Findings show that there is an increase in overall crime in Tshwane on game days, but when specific types of crime are examined, the association between sporting events and crime levels in Tshwane varies depending on the spatial level under investigation. Explanations for these findings are provided based on routine activities theory linked with knowledge of the socio-demographics of sports fans in South Africa. We conclude by outlining some international implications of our results for law enforcement agencies tasked with policing cities during major sporting events.