Death toll from KZN violence, looting increases to 26
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala says at least 26 people have died in the looting and violence plaguing the province.
"These were people who were killed during stampede, as protesters ran riot," Zikalala said in a media briefing on Tuesday.
"As of last night, law enforcement agencies have arrested 187 suspects. The crisis has reminded us of the painful and ugly scars of violence that took place in 1990s."
READ: Durban chamber says city is losing reputation in business market
Zikalala addressed the province on the situation, which has become critical now.
He says the provincial govenment still counting the costs of the damage to property.
"The total cost of the damage might come in the form of increased unemployment and poverty in years to come.
"Whilst we are collating the information relating to the cost of protest we estimate that the destruction to both private and public infrastructure will amount to not less than R1 billion."
READ: WATCH: Terrified Durban resident recounts horror night of explosions, gunshots
