VERULAM, KwaZulu-Natal — Authorities within the eThekwini Municipality are escalating security measures at the historic Wick Street Cemetery in Verulam following persistent reports of indecent acts and lewd behavior on the sacred grounds. Municipal spokesperson Senzele Mzila confirmed that the city is treating the matter with high priority, deploying additional law enforcement to protect the dignity of the burial site and halt the disturbances.
The troubling allegations, which first emerged in January 2026, were initially flagged by a local security firm operating nearby, municipal maintenance staff, and Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA). Accounts describe individuals engaging in inappropriate conduct, including standing on or lying across tombstones. There are also disturbing claims involving the viewing or creation of pornographic material within the cemetery boundaries. While initial reports suggested multiple individuals of various backgrounds were involved, local residents have frequently observed a single recurring person returning to the site to engage in these activities.
Emphasizing the sanctity of the location, Senzele Mzila stated that the city views these incidents as a serious violation. “Cemeteries are places of dignity where we lay our loved ones to rest,” Mzila explained. “These reports are deeply concerning, and we are taking all necessary steps to ensure this behavior does not continue.”
Despite being one of the municipality’s oldest burial grounds—with some tombstones dating back to 1903—and featuring regular maintenance and perimeter enclosures, the site has specific vulnerabilities. Investigations indicate that perpetrators are exploiting a rear access gate and utilizing dense bushland behind the cemetery as a concealed entry point. Mzila noted that this is the first time the city has received complaints of this specific nature, though it intersects with broader, ongoing municipal efforts to manage homelessness in the area.
To combat the trespassing and indecent exposure, the eThekwini Municipality has formally instructed both the Durban police service and the metro police to significantly boost their patrol frequency around the cemetery. Reaction Unit South Africa has also maintained a visible, active presence in the vicinity to deter further incidents.
Because the cemetery is situated within the Verulam central business district, officials expressed acute concern for the safety of children who frequently play in the adjacent areas. Although no grieving families have yet come forward to report the disturbances, the municipality is strongly urging any witnesses or affected relatives to break the silence.
Residents are encouraged to contact the metro police control center or report directly to the police, as indecent exposure is a prosecutable criminal offense. “We need our communities to work closely with us,” Mzila added, “so that those responsible face the full might of the law and we can preserve the sanctity of this space.”
