KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of five young men in the Bambayi area of Inanda, north of Durban. The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, 17 January 2025, sending shockwaves through the community.
According to preliminary police reports, officers responded to reports of multiple murders and discovered three bodies at a local sports ground near a school. Two additional bodies were found approximately 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, and disturbingly, one victim had an arm severed. Police suspect a bush knife was used in the attacks, though the motive remains unknown at this stage.
Premier 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, will move swiftly to arrest those responsible and ensure they face the full might of the law,"* said Premier Ntuli.
The Premier further 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 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,"* he added.
Premier Ntuli expressed concern over the persistent 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 emphasized that such violent incidents undermine the government’s 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.
Premier Ntuli extended his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims during this tragic time.
ENDS
*For Media Enquiries, Please Contact:*
*Mr. Bongani Gina*
Head of Provincial Government Communications
071 217 3037
*Mr. Lindelani Mbatha*
Media Liaison Officer
061 499 0774
OR
*Ms. Sindiswa Hlophe*
Community Safety and Liaison Communications
082 045 8361
*Issued by: KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government*