South African police open over 120 criminal cases during elections
Arrests made across the country for offences including fraud, assault, and contraventions of the Electoral Act.
South African Police Service (Saps) opened more than 120 criminal cases and arrested 59 people over three days of voting for the 2026 local government elections. The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) reported these figures on Thursday, noting incidents occurred nationwide despite a focus on 331 high-risk voting stations. Police intervened to ensure voting continued at stations facing operational or logistical challenges.
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) recorded the highest police activity with 18 cases and seven arrests, including eight contraventions of the Electoral Act and four intimidation cases. A police sergeant was removed from duty for arriving at a voting station with political party posters, and a burglary at Mnyameni High School involved the theft of sensitive IEC materials like ballot papers and the voters' roll. Acting KZN police commissioner Phumelele Makoba stated internal investigations are underway for these breaches.
Election day saw 57 cases opened and 27 arrests, with contraventions of the Electoral Act being the most frequent offence. Special voting days resulted in 65 cases and 32 arrests. Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili confirmed police responsibility continues to protect voting materials and secure results. Police have also recorded 21 murder cases in recent months considered politically motivated.
Why it mattersOver 120 criminal cases and 59 arrests were made during the 2026 local government elections, impacting public order and the integrity of the electoral process.