Interview with Madadeni, KZN group fighting back against crime

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

The Abaqondisi, a group of fed-up Madadeni, KZN residents spoke with Newcastillian News, explaining how they have taken a stand against the unmanaged criminal element raging across the area. Consisting of 35 highly-dedicated residents, the group tackles crime by physically removing lawbreakers from the streets.

Reflecting on the establishment of the group, Abaqondisi’s Chairperson Sakhile Mbatha explained that the group was formally founded on 9 June 2022. “There was so much crime in the community, that a few residents got together and decided something needed to be done to address the matter.”

This saw the newly formed Abqondisi taking a bold approach to combat crime, rather than waiting or hoping for a solution, they grabbed some sjamboks and got to work. 

In August, the group caught wind of drug users using an illegally built house as a drug den and robbing passers-by. Taking action, Abaqondisi destroyed the structure, burning it to the ground, before ensuring the perpetrators were taken to the Madadeni SAPS for questioning.

Additionally, the group assisted the SAPS in locating a murder suspect from Johannesburg hiding in Madadeni. They have also caught numerous burglars, recovered a stolen car, and on 8 September 2022, the men even apprehended a person caught stealing tombstones from Roy Point Cemetery.

“What we are doing is dangerous, as most criminals carry weapons on them. But we are not scared, as we are doing this for the love of our community and to keep people safe.”

Abaqondisi’s Chairperson Sakhile Mbatha

Determined to make a positive impact on Madadeni, Mbatha explained that there has already been a notable decrease in crime.

“We work closely with the police and when we find the information we take it immediately to the SAPS, If we find people involved in crime, we also take them to the police,” affirmed Mbatha.

According to Abaqondisi, their popularity has grown to such an extent that community members often call on them for assistance, or point out offenders to them. “The public is often too scared to go to the police for help, but they feel more comfortable coming to us.”

When confronted with the allegations of assaulting suspects, the group laughed and denied it. They merely ensured that the criminal element cooperated when taken to the police station.

As the group fights crime on a daily basis, Mbatha pointed out that they do so without any funding. While Abaqondisi does not want any financial rewards, they call on community members, local businesses, and the municipality to support them. “All we are asking for is support in terms of sjamboks, uniforms, snacks, and something warm to drink at night so that we can continue keeping criminals out of Madadeni,” he said. 

Furthermore, Mbatha warned criminals to bring their dastardly deeds to an end. “We don’t want crime in our area anymore, so rather stop whatever illegal activities you are doing. If you are breaking the law because you have a drug problem, come to us and we will try to get you into rehab.”

If anyone would like to support them, be sure to contact Sakhile Mbatha on 065 112 4461.

What are your thoughts on this and do you feel there should be more groups of this nature across the various NKZN towns?

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