DA demands action as mall-related crime in KwaZulu-Natal rises

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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal has called on SAPS and other stakeholders, including business, to take immediate and decisive action to ramp up security in and around the province’s shopping malls.

The call comes after several violent, high-profile mall robberies in KwaZulu-Natal in recent months, resulting in tragic loss of life and widespread fear within communities.

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It also comes after KZN’s most recent crime statistics – for the period October to December 2024 – revealed an alarming increase in commercial crime with 751 more cases reported.

That’s over EIGHT per day!

‘Target public spaces’

In a media statement issued by Riona Gokool, MPL – DA KZN Spokesperson on Community Safety and Liaison on Thursday, the DA said that: ‘Incidents, where criminals brazenly target public spaces, cannot be allowed to become the norm. These acts of violence not only jeopardise the safety of residents, they also undermine the broader economic stability of our province.

‘As central hubs of commerce and social activity, shopping malls are vital KZN’s economy. They are economic engines, providing jobs to thousands of our provinces residents and supporting small business. They should also be a safe space for families to gather and enjoy leisure time.

‘When these spaces become frequent targets for criminals, it increases the risk of them becoming dangerous or deserted, falling into decline and becoming white elephants in our urban landscapes.’

The DA called for the following urgent measures to be adopted:

• Increased collaboration between all stakeholders including government, SAPS and other law enforcement, business leaders and citizens to ensure that our malls are secure and vibrant spaces
• Increased patrols, the deployment of specialised units and prioritisation of properly-trained and resourced law enforcement officers who can deal with conflict de-escalation in high-risk situations and;
• The installation of advanced monitoring systems and technology to detect mall-related criminal activity before it escalates.

‘A strong message must be sent to criminals that such acts of violence and intimidation will not be tolerated.

‘As part of KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU) the DA will continue to push for the necessary investments in public safety. The rule of law must be upheld. Our province’s people deserve to be able to enjoy public spaces without fear,’ the DA added.