More than 11,000 suspects were arrested across KwaZulu-Natal in February as police intensified efforts to curb serious and violent crime in the province. Authorities also seized 287 firearms in a bid to dismantle criminal networks.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshuinda confirmed the arrests, noting that firearms remain the weapon of choice in violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery.
Major Arrests and Crime Statistics
Law enforcement operations throughout the province led to the arrest of:
- 151 suspects for murder
- 151 suspects for attempted murder
- 217 individuals for aggravated robberies, including carjackings, cash-in-transit heists, and house and business robberies
- 217 men on rape charges, with an additional 37 arrested for sexual assault
- 2,547 people for assault, including cases of grievous bodily harm and common assault
Seizure of Weapons and Illegal Firearms
During the crackdown, police confiscated 626 dangerous weapons, including:
- 562 knives
- 12 axes
- 20 machetes
In addition, 569 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.
Ongoing Law Enforcement Efforts
KwaZulu-Natal remains a hotspot for violent crime, prompting increased police operations aimed at removing illegal weapons and prosecuting offenders.
“We remain committed to ensuring that criminals are brought to justice and that communities are safer,” Netshuinda stated.
Authorities have urged residents to support crime-fighting efforts by reporting criminal activity through the Crime Stop hotline or their nearest police station.