Mariannhill residents still live in fear as gangs continue to terrorise the area

DURBAN - Residents of Mariannhill, in KwaZulu-Natal, say they continue to live in fear despite a recent takedown of a local gang that allegedly terrorized the area.  

Three months ago, residents expressed relief after nine suspected criminals were killed in a shootout with police. 

Police said the group was wanted for murders and robberies among other criminal activity in the community.

Many houses sit empty as some residents have been forced to flee their homes due to the rising crime.

The house where the nine suspects were killed appears to be abandoned, with broken windows and doors, while bullet holes are still visible.  

READ: 9 suspected criminals killed in shootout with police in Mariannhill

Despite the criminals being killed during the shootout with police, community members say not much has changed in terms of the crime.

"By 6 and 7 o'clock, you must rush home because what happens after 8pm, it gets bad. It's always dark here, so we are scared. Gunshots... it's a thing here, just last week they shot someone to death," said one resident.

Community members also allege there are gangs from other areas who are now terrorising the area and neighbouring communities.