A security guard was shot and wounded during an armed robbery at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga on Sunday, 12 April 2026, causing shoppers to flee in panic. According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), the incident occurred around 17:30. The unit reported that the guard was shot in the leg by suspects who had targeted a jewelry store.
RUSA spokesperson Prem Balram stated that the suspects fled the scene in a getaway vehicle. Paramedics treated the wounded security guard at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital for further care. His condition was reported as stable.
Local police have opened a case of attempted murder and armed robbery. Authorities are investigating the incident and reviewing CCTV footage. No arrests have been made at this time.
The Gateway mall is one of the largest shopping centers in KwaZulu-Natal. The shooting has raised renewed concerns about security in public spaces. Management at the mall has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.
