Twelve arrested for looting as KZN counts the cost of floods

KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala was forced to deploy additional police officers in some of the flood-damaged areas on Wednesday following several reports of looting.

Provincial police spokesperson Ngobile Gwala says a group of community members entered two stores and took groceries and appliances.

“Police swiftly responded at both premises and arrested a total of 12 suspects. The suspects were arrested for charges of burglary business and possession of stolen property.

“Some of the stolen groceries were recovered by police and handed back to the store manager. A vehicle that was used in the commission of crime was also seized by police.”

The suspects are expected to appear in the Umlazi Magistrate's Court on Thursday.