Durban temple robbery: Devotees targeted during prayer

Durban police are investigating an armed robbery at a local temple that occurred on Saturday, during which devotees were targeted while engaged in prayer. Five men allegedly stormed the Merebank Kali Amman Community Temple located on Sialkot Crescent, south of Durban, and robbed individuals of their personal belongings. According to Dhevan Govindasamy, a spokesperson for private security firm PT Alarms, the suspects reportedly stole cellphones from several people and a gold bangle from a woman. Guru Sagaren Govender, one of the temple’s devotees, described the harrowing experience. He stated that he was present with four others inside the temple when a man entered and brandished a gun, demanding valuables. “He said he would shoot me and the others if we did not give him our stuff,” Govender recounted. The prayer session had just concluded, with approximately 40 devotees on-site, when a vehicle arrived at the premises. The driveway gate was left open to facilitate departure, allowing the perpetrators to enter unimpeded. Govender detailed how the attackers dispersed throughout the temple grounds. One individual harassed a devotee in the car park, who uses crutches due to a disability. Despite attempts to seize the person’s vehicle, the robbers were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, another suspect directed his firearm toward other attendees. After the assailant removed the gold bangle from a woman standing near Govender, he fled the scene. The incident left the victims deeply shaken and fearful. Govender informed the authorities about the occurrence and recommended increased police presence in such settings. “It is a clarion call for everybody to be vigilant, whether at a religious organisation or at home. A robbery can happen anywhere and anytime,” he emphasized. The temple’s leadership has since called for heightened awareness among devotees regarding safety precautions. Govindasamy noted that a description of the suspected vehicle, a white i20, has been shared with relevant authorities. While no physical harm was reported, the emotional impact on the victims was profound. He cautioned that criminal elements exploit opportunities within religious spaces, urging devotees to secure their belongings and avoid displaying valuable items. “After all, it's a place of worship and not a fashion show,” he remarked. Aidan David, Chairman of the eThekwini District Police board at Durban Central SAPS, encouraged religious groups to collaborate with the Community Policing Forum (CPF) spiritual desk. This initiative aims to develop strategies to mitigate risks during communal gatherings. “This is an isolated incident. Community activism is important. The policing forums are made of volunteers and meet regularly so we need everyone on board,” David added. According to national statistics, the South African Police Service recorded 26,796 robberies with aggravating circumstances during the fourth quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year, representing a decrease of 4,953 cases compared to the prior year. The Wentworth SAPS is currently examining the specific case of the armed robbery at the temple.