Phoenix unrest death toll rises to 20, several missing - Cele
Police Minister Bheki Cele insists criminality has been the main driving force behind tensions in Phoenix, Zwelisha and other neighbouring areas.
He says 20 people have been killed in Phoenix during these last few days of unrest.
Several others are missing.
READ: Cele confirms 15 dead in Phoenix, community leaders to meet
Cele was speaking at the Phoenix police station, where he met community leaders from surrounding areas.
Oh Thursday, Cele addressed allegations some of the deaths were racially motivated.
"I refuse to completely take this situation here as a racial situation and pardon criminality. Because if it were a racial situation, we would not have seen, yes indeed many people coming from Zwelisha died, there a few people died, but there have been comrades stealing."
Cele said he’s also noted there has been racial profiling of people in parts of Durban where some locals have taken control of access into their residential areas.
Meanwhile, a Phoenix resident said she’s seen the army on patrol in some parts of the area.
READ: Phoenix community on 'high alert' after gunshots ring out
"Apparently, from Monday, they have been deploying trips to our areas and we are still waiting for the arm to arrive. In some arear they came late last night (Wednesday) one arm vehicle. Its more scary to know that our government can't protect us.
"For the moment, things have quietened down, most areas are secure but we don’t know what will come later in the day."
