CONCERNS over escalating lawlessness in uMhlanga Village dominated discussions at the most recent Umhlanga Residents and Ratepayers’ Association (URRA) meeting, with residents and leaders calling for urgent intervention.

The latest incident, which took place at an establishment at Oceans Mall on September 6, has further encouraged the association and the area’s Ward councillor to persist with placing pressure on the city’s Metro SAPS to urgently intervene.

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A video widely circulated on social media shows a group of patrons in an altercation. One of them was punched in the face and left to struggle back up onto his feet. The clip, which played for over a minute, didn’t show any intervention from Metro SAPS, or the venue’s security.

The mall said in a public statement that it was aware of the incident and that an internal investigation was underway.

It read: “We are working closely with our security partners to address the matter. We are also reinforcing additional protocols and preventative measures within our security team to ensure the continued safety of our patrons.”

URRA chairperson Terri MacLarty said the situation has become intolerable, alleging that Metro Police and SAPS lack the capacity to monitor the busy precinct. According to her, at least four complaints are lodged daily, ranging from loud exhausts and screeching tyres to revving engines, public partying and brawls in the early hours of the morning.

“The charm and appeal of uMhlanga are lost, and the area is deteriorating at a fast pace. Residents can’t be expected to tolerate these disturbances. These incidents being allowed to happen in the area also decrease the property values. A solution has to be found,” said MacLarty.

She added that the association is pressuring the city to increase Metro Police presence and aims to work with residents, businesses, private security and other organisations to restore order.

Ward 35 councillor Bradley Singh confirmed he had received about 15 formal complaints this year. He warned that fights, firearms, deejay battles that go on till the early hours of the morning, and overcrowded venues are worsening the problem. Singh urged residents to open cases at police stations and said he supports stronger enforcement measures.

“We are fully aware that tourism is one of Durban’s main economic sources, contributing R7b annually and supporting 61 000 jobs. Umhlanga is at the heart of this economy. While we support growth and events being hosted in the area, public safety is of utmost importance,” he said.

“We need visible policing, more resources, and even breathalyser tests for patrons leaving venues. The venues themselves also need to have strict security measures in place. We are planning an online petition and possible placard demonstrations to send a clear message that the community has had enough,” added Singh.

He said that if action is not taken, Durban risks losing its most vibrant economic hub, uMhlanga, to decline and decay.

In response, the Metro Police rejected claims of a manpower shortage. Spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu said the precinct remains covered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Referring to the latest incident at Oceans Mall, he said several staff had been booked off sick.

“On the day in question, a challenge arose when several members booked off sick simultaneously. The matter is under investigation. Despite this, Metro Police continues regular patrols and remains committed to the safety and security of all communities within eThekwini,” said Zungu.

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