Over 5,000 Suspects Nabbed in KZN September Crime Crackdown, 105 Firearms Seized

The South African Police Service in KwaZulu-Natal has made a big dent in crime during September, arresting over 5,000 suspects for various offences and seizing 105 unlicensed firearms. This surge in arrests comes from ongoing high-density operations aimed at hotspots showing rising crime rates. Among those caught, many face charges for serious contact crimes like assault, murder, and attempted murder, while others were nabbed for drug-related issues. Police say this shows their commitment to safer communities, with behind-the-scenes work linking suspects to more crimes and testing guns for ties to other cases.

These efforts are part of a broader push to tackle criminal networks, including extortion rings that target businesses and vulnerable groups. With KwaZulu-Natal often hit by high violence levels, these results offer some hope, but officials stress the fight is far from over. This article breaks down the arrest figures, key operations, and what it means for safety in the province.

Breakdown of Arrests and Crimes Targeted

In September 2025, police rounded up 5,527 suspects across KwaZulu-Natal for a range of crimes. Of these, 1,464 were linked to contact crimes, which involve direct harm to people. A big chunk—730—faced charges for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, a common violent offence that leaves victims badly hurt.

Serious violence was a focus too, with 85 arrests for murder and 93 for attempted murder. These numbers highlight the province’s ongoing battle with deadly crimes, often tied to disputes, gangs, or robberies. Drugs played a major role as well, with 921 suspects caught for dealing or possessing narcotics, leading to seizures that disrupt supply chains.

Firearms were another key target, with 51 people arrested for having unlicensed guns and ammo. The 105 recovered weapons will go through ballistic tests to check if they link to unsolved shootings or other incidents. This step is crucial in a region where illegal arms fuel much of the violence.

Operation Shanela: Driving the Crackdown

Much of this success stems from Operation Shanela, a nationwide high-visibility policing drive rolled out in May 2023. In KwaZulu-Natal, it targeted areas with spiking crime stats, using various units to conduct raids, roadblocks, and patrols. The goal is to hit hard in problem spots, making it tougher for criminals to operate.

During September, these ops led to the bulk of arrests and recoveries. Police say frantic work continues behind the scenes, probing suspects for links to other crimes. This includes digging into their backgrounds and using forensics on seized items. Nationwide, Shanela netted over 17,000 arrests in one week alone, with 196 for murder and 192 firearms seized, showing its scale.

In KZN specifically, Shanela II has been relentless. For example, on 26 September, organised crime officers nabbed three suspects, including two alleged extortion kingpins in Eshowe and Durban. They targeted student digs and foreign-owned businesses, with cash, vehicles, and guns seized. The trio appeared in court on 29 September, facing charges that could break bigger networks.

Other ops included arresting four suspects with firearms and a stolen vehicle in Ugu District on 24 September. These targeted hits show police adapting to local threats, from extortion to gun running.

Impact on Communities and Deterrence

These arrests aim to bring relief to communities plagued by fear. By pulling dangerous people and weapons off the streets, police hope to cut violence and drug flow. But they note that arrests are just the start—successful convictions are key to lasting change.

The operations also send a message: crime hotspots will face constant pressure. With units like the Provincial Organised Crime team leading, links to broader syndicates are being uncovered. This could lead to bigger busts, disrupting gangs that thrive on fear and illegal arms.

However, challenges remain. KZN’s high murder rate—over 6,000 last year—means more work is needed. Community tips via Crime Stop have helped, but trust-building is ongoing amid past corruption scandals in the force.

🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal

Download Here:

Direct PDF File Here:

https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf

Read all our publications on magzter:

https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues

Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content,  Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.

We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.

Advertisement:

To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za

For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za

Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za

General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za