A drop in serious crime and a strong visible security presence made for a safer, calmer festive season across iLembe.

From December 2 to January 3, police across the district reported several notable successes, the result of strong partnerships and co-ordinated operations.

iLembe police communications officer Priya Nunkumar said 142 people were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, while 79 were arrested for drug-related offences. Police also recovered 46 unlicensed firearms.

In the Umhlali Saps precinct, high-visibility operations began from December 1.

Acting Community Police Forum (CPF) chairperson Josha Daniel credited strong collaboration between Saps, CPFs and community groups.

“Despite limited resources, regular patrols in known hotspots played a key role in improving safety,” he said.

Awareness campaigns on domestic violence, human trafficking and child abuse were also rolled out in partnership with The Rise Up Movement. Joint inspections with the KZN Liquor Board also led to improved compliance at alcohol outlets.

While serious crime dropped compared to previous years, Daniel said underage drinking, domestic violence and weak by-law enforcement remain challenges.

“The data shows partnership-led policing is working. But long-term support, stronger by-law enforcement and better victim support services are essential.”

KwaDukuza CPF chairperson Dr Mfuneni Zungu agreed.

“We had a good season with few major crime incidents, apart from minor alcohol-related cases. We also saw fewer murders, which is very encouraging.”

Isolated incidents included vehicle thefts in Ballito and the murder of a security guard at KwaDukuza Mall. The murder suspect was arrested the same day.

Ballito Neighbourhood Watch chairperson Morné Steffens praised a marked reduction in break-ins but noted the rise in vehicle theft as a concern.

Steffens credited the Ballito and Salt Rock Neighbourhood Watches and the iLembe Chamber of Commerce initiative for helping keep beaches alcohol-free for most of the season. This was sponsored by local estates.

Private security firms IPSS, Marshall and IGS Security, along with KDM Community Safety, were praised for their beach patrols. The UIP also manned local beaches.

Mozambik Restaurant was thanked for sponsoring meals for officers on December 26 and January 2.

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