KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has strongly condemned the brutal killing of five young men in the Bhambayi area of Inanda, north of Durban.
This follows an incident which took place in the early hours of Friday, sending shockwaves through the community.
According to preliminary police reports, the officers responded to reports of multiple murders, and discovered three bodies at a local sports ground in a nearby school.
Two additional bodies were found a kilometre away at another open field.
The victims, aged between 19 and 26, were reportedly abducted from their homes around midnight. Their bodies were found with multiple injuries, including one victim who had an arm chopped off.
Police suspect a bush knife was used in the attacks, though the motive remains unknown at this stage.
Ntuli has called for an urgent and thorough investigation into this heinous crime.
"The senseless and barbaric killing of these young men is deeply disturbing and unacceptable. These were our children, some of whom should have been celebrating their matric results, while others should be preparing for higher education.
“I am confident that the dedicated members of the South African Police Service, under the leadership of Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi [in KwaZulu-Natal], will move swiftly to arrest those responsible, and ensure they face the full might of the law," Ntuli said.
The Premier also appealed to the community of Inanda and surrounding areas to come forward with any information that could assist law enforcement in tracking down the perpetrators.
"I urge members of the community safety structures and the broader public to collaborate with the police. Let us work together to ensure that those who commit such horrific crimes are brought to justice. We must not shield criminals in our communities," Ntuli said.
Ntuli further expressed concern over the persistently high crime levels in Inanda, which has been identified as one of the province’s most crime-affected areas in the latest third quarter crime statistics.
He emphasised that such violent incidents undermine government efforts to create a safer and more secure environment for all citizens.
The Premier reaffirmed the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government’s commitment to intensifying crime prevention strategies and strengthening partnerships between law enforcement agencies and communities.
Ntuli has extended his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims during this tragic time. – SAnews.gov.za
