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Residents in Verulam, north of Durban, have raised concerns over alleged inappropriate and sexual behaviour taking place at a local cemetery.
Community members say they have reported incidents to Reaction Unit South Africa after allegedly witnessing men engaging in sexual acts at the cemetery, including on graves and tombstones.
Residents claim some of the men gather at the site to watch pornography before engaging in inappropriate behaviour. They say the incidents have been occurring for several months, with some individuals reportedly visiting the cemetery since early January.
A local resident says attempts to chase the men away have often been unsuccessful.
“They are chased with stones and other things, but they don't stop,” she said.
She added that some of the men continue despite being confronted by residents and security personnel.
“They can see that you see them. You can shout and chase them, but they don't stop until they finish, then take their stuff and leave,” she said.
Security companies have increased patrols at the cemetery in an effort to prevent the alleged behaviour. Security personnel say some of the men appear unfazed when confronted, prompting continued monitoring of the area.
Police have indicated that sexual activity at a cemetery constitutes a criminal offence, while the eThekwini Municipality says such conduct also contravenes cemetery by-laws.
Authorities are urging residents to report incidents to the police so that the allegations can be properly investigated.