THE eThekwini Municipality has taken decisive action in response to escalating concerns over public safety and lawlessness in uMhlanga Village, announcing a series of targeted interventions, including an amplified metro police presence and stricter enforcement of city by-laws.

This follows a surge of public outcry, sparked by several high-profile incidents in the area, most notably a violent altercation at a venue in Oceans Mall on September 6, which went viral on social media and raised alarms about insufficient law enforcement visibility.

In a formal response to Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson, who called for these measures following the incident, Mayor Cyril Xaba acknowledged the concerns and detailed the municipality’s multi-pronged approach to restoring order and safeguarding one of Durban’s key economic and tourism hubs.

Also read: Reckless driving and speeding a concern in uMhlanga

“We appreciate your proactiveness in this matter, and we will also communicate with the residents of uMhlanga accordingly.

“Law enforcement has already started, and there is a Law Enforcement Officer stationed in the area every evening,” Xaba confirmed, adding that enforcement of trading hours and municipal by-laws will take place weekly moving forward.

The city is also fast-tracking the implementation of speed calming measures along Lagoon Drive, with design and community engagement processes already underway. These measures are expected to be in place before the festive season begins.

The municipality’s announcement directly addresses calls from the Umhlanga Residents and Ratepayers’ Association (URRA), local councillor Bradley Singh, and members of the public who have been raising the alarm about deteriorating conditions in the precinct.

Residents have long complained of noise disturbances, street racing, overcrowded venues, and late-night brawls — incidents they say threaten both the quality of life and property values in the area.

Also read: Renewed calls for cyclists safety following accidents

Ward 35 councillor Singh has been outspoken about the urgent need for intervention, warning that unchecked disorder could jeopardise uMhlanga’s status as Durban’s economic heartbeat.

In an interview with Northglen News in September, he called for breathalyser checks, stricter venue security, and greater collaboration between authorities, businesses, and residents.

“I am extremely pleased that the city management recognises the vital importance of safety in Umhlanga. Metro police must decisively enforce the law, and we must ensure the arrest and prosecution of those who break it, particularly those performing burnouts on Lagoon Drive,“ said Singh.

URRA chairperson Terri MacLarty said the forum has been trying to get this lawlessness under control for several years and the Mayor’s response to their plea is positive and appreciated.

“We now need to see some arrests and vehicles impounded to show that enforcement has been stepped up. URRA is committed to saving our community from the deterioration that has been creeping in,” she said.

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