Crime data processing and mapping: Challenges of using geographical information systems to combat crime

The article describes the use of the Geographical information system as a technique in the processing of crime data to combat crime. In this process the crime data must be valid to ensure the smoother crime mapping. Crime data such as place where crime committed, modus operandi, crime spree and crime pattern would be inserted and analysed in the usage of the GIS technology by the police at the station level. The study employed a qualitative research approach to investigate the trend. The research deployed non empirical study where literature was used to answer the research question. The purpose of the article is to interrogate the challenges in the use of GIS as a technique to combat crime. This article finds that GIS operators experience significant operational challenges, because of the lack of the training in the use of GIS and poor GIS components such as computer and outdated GIS software’s. Further, the lack of relationship between units within the South African Police Service and external technological institutions disadvantages GIS operators to be successful in the use of GIS to process and map crime data. The study recommended that police management need to support police with the training and proper resources to successfully operate GIS to combat crime.