Phoenix murders: Bheki Cele to host series of meetings after violent unrest

Police Minister Bheki Cele will take part in a series of meetings on Sunday relating to ongoing investigations into the murder of 36 people in Phoenix, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) during last months violent riots, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed. 

During the chaos that unfolded in July, horrific acts of violence were carried out in the KZN town, with police currently investigating the brutal murders of dozens of residents. 

Cele to visit Phoenix on Sunday  

Police Ministry spokesperson Lirandzu Themba said in a statement issued on Sunday that meetings will take place between Cele and a host of stakeholders in Phoenix, with residents set to be given an opportunity to voice their anguish and grievances in person over the course of the day. 

“Police Minister, General Bheki Cele will on Sunday 15 August 2021, host feedback meetings to provide updates on investigations by the South African Police Service, into the murder of 36 people in Phoenix, during the July unrests in the province,” said Themba. 

“Minister Cele will together with the Peace Committee, interact with residents of Phoenix and neighbouring settlements of Bhambayi, Umaoti and Zwelisha.”

Cele will first visit the Bhambayi ground near Phoenix, before engaging wit residents in the town itself at the Vineyard church. He will then address members of local government at the Councillors office in Phoenix before heading to Amaoti Hall this afternoon. 

#PoliceMinister Today Gen Cele will host feedback meetings on investigations by #SAPS, into murder of 36 people in Phoenix, during July unrests. Bhambayi ground opposite phoenix @ 09:00, Phoenix Vinyard Church @ 11:00, Zwelisha Councillors Office @ 13:00 & Amaoti Hall @ 15:00. TM pic.twitter.com/XWOBpRgYEX

— SA Police Service (@SAPoliceService) August 15, 2021

Suspects abandon bail applications

Three Phoenix men who are facing charges of murder and attempted murder in relation to the recent unrest that gripped parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng abandoned their bail applications in the Verulam Magistrates Court earlier this week, with police having thus far made 11 arrests relating to the killings. 

They have been charged for crimes ranging from murder and attempted murder to unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition following the recent unrest.