Three separate alleged murders across the Umhlali policing precinct over the past week have raised fresh concerns about violent crime in local townships.

Umhlali SAPS spokesperson surgent Makhosi Khumalo confirmed police are investigating murder cases in Shayamoya, Upper Tongaat and Etete.

The first incident occurred shortly after midnight on Friday when 20-year-old Mxolisi Mgwane was shot dead at a home in Zinkwa Town, Shayamoya.

According to police, Mgwane was sleeping in an outside room with his girlfriend and sister when two unidentified men allegedly kicked open the door and entered the room.

“It is alleged the suspects used a torch to identify the victim before instructing the two women to move aside. They then fired two shots at him and fled the scene on foot,” said Khumalo.

In a separate incident on Sunday, a man identified only as Tsutsulubha was found dead inside a tin shelter in Sinqobile, Upper Tongaat.

Residents alleged the man had been assaulted after being accused of breaking into a house and stealing electronic equipment. A gun, magazine and ammunition were found with his body.

Later the same day, officers discovered the body of 57-year-old Bongani Maphumulo with multiple stab wounds to the neck inside his home in Velani Township, Etete.

Neighbours became concerned after not seeing him for several days and hearing a radio playing loudly inside the house.

“The motive for the murder is still under investigation and no arrests have been made,” said Khumalo.

Ward 23 councillor Collen Mdletshe said residents are increasingly worried about frequent shootings in Shayamoya and Etete.

“We believe the incidents are linked to rival groups involved in drug dealing. Many of those involved are young men from our own community, some not even 25 years old, yet already linked to serious violent crime,” he said.

Mdletshe said the ongoing violence had left many residents living in fear, with some families reportedly choosing to relocate