KEY POINTS
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Four suspected gang members were arrested in Cato Manor for their involvement in over 20 murders in Amaoti, Durban.
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The suspects, aged 21 to 33, were found in possession of firearms, ammunition, and stolen property, and are also linked to multiple attempted murders.
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Investigations are ongoing, and further arrests are expected as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle the gang networks terrorizing the region.
KwaZulu-Natal police arrested four suspected gang members for murders in Cato Manor on Saturday, following a successful multidisciplinary operation.
The suspects are believed to be linked to over 20 murders in the crime-ridden Amaoti area of Inanda, north of Durban. The arrests come after several months of investigation and intelligence gathering.
Sowetanlive reports that the operation was a collaborative effort between crime intelligence, Cato Manor crime prevention units, Inanda detectives, and the Durban metro police.
The arrest of the suspects, aged between 21 and 33, marks a significant development in the ongoing battle against organized gang violence in the region.
“Police followed positive intelligence about the suspects who were hiding at a house in Cato Manor. Upon arrival, officers found the suspects in possession of two firearms, ammunition, and suspected stolen property, including laptops and cellphones,” said police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda.
Suspects linked to multiple incidents
The suspects have been linked to multiple incidents of murder, with the police investigating further connections to attempted murders. “The suspects are allegedly responsible for at least 20 murders and several attempted murders,” Netshiunda added.
The suspects are expected to appear before the Ntuzuma Magistrate’s Court on Thursday. Authorities have assured the public that investigations are ongoing, and efforts to apprehend additional suspects are underway.
The arrests have brought some relief to the communities affected by the gang violence, but police remain cautious as they continue to track down other individuals involved. Major-General Bongani Maqashalala, the provincial deputy commissioner, confirmed that a list of further potential suspects has already been compiled.
The case has drawn attention to the growing influence of gang networks in South Africa, with increasing concerns about the safety of residents and the ability of law enforcement to tackle such violent crimes. The tragic history of gang violence in the region underscores the need for more effective measures to protect vulnerable communities.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging residents to provide any information that may aid in the arrest of more gang members and prevent further bloodshed. Police are intensifying their efforts to ensure that the remaining criminals linked to the gang are brought to justice.
