Brazen armed robbery at Merebank Kali Amman community temple
Durban police are investigating a shocking armed robbery at the Merebank Kali Amman Community Temple, where five men targeted worshippers during prayer.
The Merebank Kali Amman Community Temple in Durban was the scene of a brazen armed robbery on Sialkot Crescent, targeting worshippers during prayer. Five men entered the temple and stole cellphones and a gold bangle from a woman, while one man threatened to shoot others unless they surrendered their belongings. Devotees were caught off guard when a car drove into the property, leaving the driveway gate open.
One of the robbers attempted to steal a disabled devotee's vehicle but failed. Guru Sagaren Govender, a witness, reported the incident to the police and requested additional patrols. The white i20 vehicle used in the robbery was described, and no injuries were reported, though the victims were traumatized. Police spokesperson Dhevan Govindasamy warned religious organizations to be vigilant and advised devotees to park vehicles securely and avoid carrying visible valuables.
Durban Central SAPS Chairman Aidan David urged religious organizations to join the Community Policing Forum's spiritual desk to help prevent future crimes during religious gatherings. In the 2025/2026 financial year, there were 26,796 robberies with aggravating circumstances in South Africa, a decrease of 4,953 from the previous year.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
