Concerns raised over high number of suspects killed by police in KwaZulu-Natal

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has raised alarm over the increasing number of suspects killed in police confrontations in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Jennifer Dikeledi Ntlatseng, IPID’s Executive Director, warned that the trend suggests some officers may be circumventing the legal process—potentially to silence suspects or destroy evidence.

According to IPID’s 2023/2024 annual report, KZN accounted for 166 fatalities linked to police actions—25% of all such cases in South Africa. The directorate has launched multiple investigations into alleged shootouts where suspects died under questionable circumstances.

Ntlatseng emphasized the need for accountability, stressing that while police have a duty to protect lives, excessive force undermines public trust in law enforcement. The findings have sparked calls for stricter oversight to ensure lawful conduct during police operations.