Community leaders in KwaDukuza have raised the alarm over the rising number of violent crimes committed with illegal firearms in township areas.

KwaDukuza Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairperson, Dr Mfuneni Zungu, said they had noted a concerning increase in armed robberies and sexual assaults in Ntshawini, Groutville and Thembeni, with many incidents occurring at gunpoint.

“Employees of local businesses are being targeted, especially those living in rented homes in the townships. Criminals know their paydays and wait to ambush them. Some victims have been assaulted or traumatised after having firearms pointed at them,” said Dr Zungu.

He added that fear of retaliation prevents many victims from reporting crimes, as perpetrators often live in the same communities and issue threats.

In the southern part of the municipality, similar concerns were raised by Umhlali CPF acting chairperson, Josha Daniel. He said township areas such as Shaka’s Head, Shayamoya and Nkobongo are experiencing consistent levels of violent crime.

“Each week, we’re seeing an average of two house robberies and one sexual offence per township. In the last three months alone, we’ve recorded at least three murders, mainly in Nkobongo and Shayamoya,” said Daniel.

Most incidents involve firearms or knives, and many are linked to alcohol consumption near taverns, he said. Efforts to shut down illegal taverns are ongoing but face challenges.

Daniel confirmed that CPF and Umhlali Saps have been holding regular community meetings with residents and ward councillors.

“These engagements are vital. They give residents a voice and a chance to raise safety concerns. We encourage more people to work with CPF structures for support,” he said.

Community patrols, known as “the community in blue,” continue to assist police as volunteer patrol members and community mediators. However, Daniel warned that CPF members are often threatened by criminals, which undermines their efforts.

“It’s deeply concerning, especially as our work is voluntary and aligned with the Saps constitution,” he said.

KwaDukuza CPF has called for greater community involvement, improved reporting mechanisms and increased police visibility to combat the rising tide of gun-related crime.

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