KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli is deeply concerned about the surge in the number of fatal violent crimes being reported across the province over Christmas holidays.

According to police reports, three men aged between 26 and 36 were shot and killed in the early hours( approximately 2 am)of today, Thursday, 26 December 2024 at KwaMpondo area in Dabhazi, Nongoma, Zululand District Municipality.

All the deceased had one gunshot wound in the head.
"We appeal to community members to assist law enforcement with information that could lead to the apprehension of whoever is responsible for this henious crime. Law enforcement cannot win the war against crime without the active participation of members of the community", says Ntuli.

In another incident at Amahlongwa area in Umkomazi, police reports reveal that a woman was stabbed multiple times by her partner in the early hours of today.

Swift police action led to the arrest of the perpetrator. " We are concerned about this blatant disregard for human life we are witnessing along the South Coast of the provice. This is a call for concern. Such crimes points to a deep moral decay in our society. We must appeal to all men to protect our women at all costs", commented the Honourable Premier.

Ntuli says the provincial government, law enforcement, traditional leadership and other stakeholders are working tirelessly to end the scourge of Gender-based violence and Femicide. The Honourable Premier says it is the responsibility of all men to respect and to protect the dignity and the right to life of all women at all times.

*For Further information, please contact:*

*Mr. Bongani Gina*
Head of Provincial Government Communications on: 071 217 3037

*Mr. Lindelani Mbatha*
Media Liaison Officer on: 061 499 0774

*Issued by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government*