KZN’s escalating crime rate the focus of planning session
KwaZulu-Natal’s escalating crime rate was the focus of a high-level two-day provincial Council Against Crime (CAC) strategic planning session held over the weekend at the Department of Public Works’ offices in Mayville.
Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli and provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi led the discussions, emphasising urgent measures to combat the province’s rampant crime.
Speaking at the session, Mr Ntuli highlighted the growing concern among residents and the increasing brazenness of criminals. He cited a recent cash-in-transit heist on the N2 between the Higginson Highway and Queensburgh off-ramps, in which a woman lost her life when criminals fired at a minibus taxi caught in the crossfire.
“This is just one example that shows criminals are becoming more daring by the day,” said Mr Ntuli, stressing the importance of greater community involvement in crime prevention efforts.
During his recent tour of the province, Mr Ntuli noted widespread frustration and fear among community members who feel overwhelmed by crime. “The people of KZN are becoming hopeless, and crime has been identified as a major contributor to this despair. There is an urgent need to take decisive action to restore hope and safety,” he said.
The severity of the crime situation was further highlighted by a deadly shootout in Bhambayi, Inanda, that took place during the CAC session. Police fatally wounded three suspects in a confrontation on Saturday, following the killing of a notorious gang leader in Cottonlands, Verulam, two days earlier.
The 22-year-old gang leader, who had an active warrant for murder and was linked to over 20 cases, including more than 10 killings, was buried under heavy police presence in Inanda on Saturday.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed that the gang leader was also facing charges of attempted murder, robbery, intimidation, and arson. A firearm was recovered from his possession, and police were still investigating his vehicle for further evidence.
Mr Ntuli expressed deep concern over the rising number of young people involved in crime, particularly gang leaders who are often school dropouts. “Many of these criminals are young. We need urgent intervention strategies to prevent youth from being drawn into crime,” he said.
The CAC, a provincial initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and national institutions, was established to bolster crime-fighting efforts. As part of the restructuring, Ntuli outlined key objectives to enhance the council’s effectiveness and ensure stronger community engagement in crime prevention.
Despite the province’s economic potential, crime remains a significant deterrent to investors. Ntuli referenced the R90 billion investment secured during last year’s Economic Development Investment Conference, warning that crime could hinder such opportunities.
“We are currently facing a serious crime challenge, and if not for the dedication of our police force, the situation would be far worse. I commend Commissioner Mkhwanazi for his leadership. However, we must acknowledge that crime discourages investment,” said Mr Ntuli.
To address safety concerns, Mr Ntuli announced the upcoming launch of a free mobile safety app by the end of February. The app will serve as an early warning system, enabling victims to send immediate distress alerts to police and safety structures at the press of a button.
“This app will allow women and vulnerable individuals to instantly notify authorities of their location and situation. My goal is for every resident in the province to have access to this app,” he said.
KZN police continues to make progress in tackling violent crime. Recent successes include the arrests of suspects linked to the murder of ANC Mandeni Municipality councillor Pendukani Mabhida. Mabhida, 41, and his sister were attacked at home last Tuesday when an unknown gunman entered and opened fire.
