Seven Arrested as KZN Police Record 18 Election-Related Cases

KwaZulu-Natal police have opened 18 criminal cases since special voting began for the 2026 Local Government Elections.

Special voting occurred on 2 and 3 November. Meanwhile, other South Africans voted on Wednesday, 4 November.

KZN POLICE INVESTIGATE 18 ELECTION-RELATED CASES

Acting KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Phumelele Makoba confirmed the 18 reported cases.

These include eight Electoral Act violations and four intimidation cases.

Police also recorded individual cases involving assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and common assault.

Other incidents involved malicious damage to property, burglary and fraud.

Authorities have arrested seven suspects. They will now face the relevant court proceedings.

Meanwhile, police have removed a sergeant from election duties following allegations of political misconduct.

Reports indicated that she arrived at a voting station in a vehicle displaying political party posters.

Makoba described the incident as unacceptable and confirmed an internal investigation.

“That is unprofessional conduct and internal investigations are underway. If any misconduct is detected, she will face disciplinary steps and possibly criminal charges,” Makoba said.

Furthermore, investigators are examining the theft of sensitive election materials at Mnyameni High School in Hillcrest.

The stolen items reportedly included unmarked ballot papers, the voters’ roll and election ink.

Police have opened a burglary case following the incident.

Makoba said established procedures require authorities to transport sensitive election materials under police escort.

“The established protocol is that ballot papers and other sensitive material are transported to voting stations on the day of the elections under police escort.

“No sensitive material must be stored at a voting station. These protocols were somehow breached, and we are working closely with the IEC to investigate the matter. We shall get to the bottom of this matter and responsible individuals will be arrested,” Makoba explained.

POLICE MAINTAIN HEIGHTENED SECURITY AFTER VOTING

Makoba assured residents that police would maintain heightened security throughout the post-election period.

The deployment aims to prevent unrest as municipalities move towards establishing their new councils.

She also urged political parties to respect the democratic process and accept voters’ decisions.

Furthermore, Makoba warned against violence or public disorder over disputed election outcomes.

“Any dissatisfaction with either the electoral process or the outcomes of the voting must be expressed through prescribed channels, and not through public disorder or violent protests.

“We are confident that political parties and independent candidates will respect the rule of law as leaders of our society and abide by the Constitution of the Republic,” she said.

Police remain committed to maintaining order as election results emerge across the province.

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