Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the alleged inciter of the July 2021 riots, surrendered herself to authorities at the Durban Central Police Station on Thursday morning, as confirmed by Brigadier Thandi Mbambo.
Although not explicitly mentioned by name, Mbambo stated in a press release that Zuma-Sambudla was taken into custody and processed.
The daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma is scheduled to appear in court for the first time at the Durban Magistrate’s Court later in the day.
Zuma-Sambudla, who is now associated with the MK party along with her father, has been accused of inciting violence and charged under the Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorist and Related Activities Act (POCDATARA).
The arrest of the 42-year-old stems from a thorough investigation conducted by the Durban Crimes Against the State unit of the Serious Organised Crime Investigation, following the widespread unrest that gripped the country in 2021, stated Mbambo.
“The ongoing prosecution-led investigation has led to a total of 69 arrests and one conviction so far,” Mbambo added.
Described as a “failed insurrection” by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the riots erupted on the evening of July 8, 2021, coinciding with Jacob Zuma’s impending incarceration on a contempt of court charge.
Over the following days, extensive areas of KwaZulu-Natal experienced turmoil, with blocked roads, torched vehicles, and widespread looting taking place.
Thousands of looters, including children, targeted businesses, shopping centers, and warehouses, causing significant damage and loss.
ATMs were vandalized, communication systems were disrupted at the Durban port, and water facilities were also attacked during the unrest.
In response to the escalating violence, community groups were enlisted to assist law enforcement in restoring order until the military was deployed.
However, delays in the deployment of the South African National Defence Force exacerbated the situation, with many residents and community policing forums taking matters into their own hands to quell the unrest.
By the time military personnel arrived, much of the violence had subsided, largely due to the efforts of the community and local law enforcement agencies.
According to KZN premier Sihle Zikalala, over 300 individuals lost their lives during the riots, predominantly criminals engaged in violent clashes over stolen goods.
