The World Cup kicks off in less than a year and there is more positive news coming from South Africa. This time, the murder rate drops for the seventh time in eight years.

Now, talking about murder rates dropping isn't good news, but it is a clear sign that the increased police presence is having a positive effect on the issue.

The South African government identified the fight against crime as one of its five priorities after the ruling party, the ANC, won a fourth consecutive term in power. The government has since set a target of crime reduction by between 7 percent and 10 percent a year.

South Africa are also employing an additional 30,000 police officers in time for the event to take the number of police in South Africa to 190,000 as was confirmed by Andre Pruis in December 2006.

"More than 30,000 police officers will concentrate on providing security to the actual events, officials and supporters during the competition," Pruis said. "There will be a dedicated team of officers in each sector.

"Police will also be patrolling roads between airports and hotels as well as roads between stadiums and hotels to ensure that visitors are protected at all times."