Three alleged hitmen believed to be connected to the escalating drug turf war in Sydenham, KZN, were apprehended at a lodge last Saturday.

According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, officers reacted to information of a suspected hijacked vehicle that was spotted at a lodge in the area. On arrival, they found two vehicles.

“One of them was reported hijacked in Sydenham a fortnight ago, while the other was hijacked in Newlands recently.”

During a search of the premises, three men, aged 19, 23 and 56, were found inside a room with four firearms, nine fully loaded magazines, eight bullet-resistant vests and an empty rifle bag, says Netshiunda.

The suspects, who claimed to be from Delft in Cape Town, were arrested and investigations are underway.

“With Sydenham known for persistent drug turf wars, police believe that the suspects, who booked into the lodge from December 6, and were to check out on Monday, could have been in the area to execute a hit,” says Netshiunda.

Sydenham Community Policing Forum chairperson Manser Akoo says the drug turf war in the area has been a growing concern for law enforcement and residents, with escalating violence and criminal activities affecting the safety and well-being of the community.

“This arrest marks a significant step towards dismantling the criminal networks responsible for the unrest.

“The community plays a crucial role in effective law enforcement and we urge residents to continue to work with law enforcement to root out crime in our area,” he adds.