KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has reiterated his call for intensified community involvement in the fight against crime following the murder of seven members of the Moonsamy family.
The Premier made the call while addressing a mass funeral for the family over the weekend, describing the killings as a devastating tragedy that has shaken the conscience of the province.
According to preliminary reports, the victims were allegedly kidnapped and robbed at their home in Newtown, Newark, under the Mandeni Local Municipality, on Tuesday, 21 April, before being transported to Melmoth, where they were murdered.
It is further alleged that some of the victims were sexually assaulted in what authorities believe was a calculated and merciless act of violence.
Among the deceased was a 20-year-old woman and an 83-year-old woman.
Delivering an emotional address, Ntuli extended condolences on behalf of the provincial government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, stressing that the victims were not mere statistics but members of a family whose lives were violently and senselessly cut short.
Condemning the kidnappings, sexual assault and murders, the Premier described the attack as an assault on humanity and the core values underpinning South Africa’s democracy.
He also noted the painful irony that the killings occurred during Freedom Month, a period dedicated to celebrating human rights, dignity and equality.
Ntuli commended the swift response of the South African Police Service, confirming that three suspects have been arrested, a stolen vehicle recovered and critical evidence secured.
“These developments send a clear and unequivocal message that perpetrators of violent crime will be pursued and brought to justice,” he said.
The Premier urged communities to play a more active role in combating crime by rejecting silence and reporting criminal activity to law enforcement agencies.
“Communities must work collectively to isolate criminal elements and strengthen cooperation with law enforcement agencies,” the Premier said.
Ntuli warned that criminality thrives in environments of fear and division, calling for greater unity as a critical weapon against lawlessness.
He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to strengthening crime prevention through enhanced collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the Department of Community Safety and Liaison.
The three suspects appeared before the Stanger Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, 28 April 2026.
Ntuli, who also attended the court proceedings, said community members had been mobilised to support petitions opposing bail for the accused, reflecting a united stance against those allegedly responsible for the heinous crime.
He assured the Moonsamy family of government’s continued support in their pursuit of justice.
“The memory of the victims must serve as a catalyst for renewed efforts to build safer, more resilient communities across KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
