**Massive Security Deployment in Inanda**
The community of Inanda, Durban, was on high alert over the weekend as law enforcement officers maintained a strong presence during the funeral of the feared Inanda West Gang leader, Mnqobi Nzimande. The funeral service took place at a hall in Phoenix on Saturday, 8 February, following his death in a shootout with police.
## **Gang Leader Killed in Police Shootout**
Mnqobi Nzimande, aged 22, and one of his accomplices were killed on 30 January during a confrontation with law enforcement in Verulam. Nzimande had a notorious reputation in the Inanda community, as he was linked to at least 20 criminal cases, including over 10 murders. Residents lived in fear under his reign, as he and his gang were known for violent crimes, including robbery, rape, and murder.
## **Threats from Gang Members Spark Fear**
Ahead of the funeral, members of the Inanda West Gang allegedly threatened to retaliate following their leader’s death. This caused panic among the residents, prompting them to call for heightened police visibility throughout the weekend. In response, law enforcement officers were deployed in large numbers, conducting stop-and-search operations and maintaining a strong presence in the area.
One resident, speaking to *Daily Sun*, expressed relief at the police intervention. “The gang members told us they would cause chaos during the funeral. We immediately reported it to the authorities. Seeing the police everywhere made us feel safe. Mnqobi and his gang made our lives a nightmare,” she said.
## **Calls for Permanent Police Presence**
Although residents were relieved by the police’s actions, they urged authorities to maintain their presence in the area beyond the funeral. A local resident emphasized that once the police leave, the gang members might resume their criminal activities.
Another concerned resident highlighted the need to dismantle the West Gang entirely. “This gang recruits young boys, sometimes as young as nine years old. They teach them to steal, rob, and even shoot. If the police don’t take decisive action, we will keep hearing about their crimes,” he said.
## **Surprising Funeral Attendance**
Despite the terror Nzimande inflicted on the community, his funeral attracted a large crowd, leaving some residents puzzled. While many were relieved by his death, his influence was evident as numerous people came to pay their last respects.
The heavy police presence throughout the weekend ensured that no violence erupted during the funeral proceedings. However, residents remain concerned about the future, urging authorities to dismantle the gang entirely to restore lasting peace in Inanda.
Authorities have yet to confirm whether further operations will be carried out to eliminate the gang’s presence in the area. Residents, however, continue to hope that the end of their feared leader will mark the beginning of a safer community.