Masters Degrees (Criminology and Forensic Studies)
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Item The perspectives on the impact of corruption on service delivery: a case study of a KwaZulu Natal municipality.(2025) Mdlalose, Siphesihle Hazel.; Ngubane, Londeka Princess.KwaZulu-Natal, which is one of South Africa's largest provinces in terms of population density, is home to numerous municipalities which are local government structures that are mandated to ensure basic service delivery to all the citizens in its area of responsibility. However, this province has reportedly faced unique challenges in its ability to ensure equitable and sustainable service delivery. While the municipalities in this region are tasked with improving the quality of life for their residents, the pervasive nature of corruption undermines their efforts. Corruption poses a significant challenge to effective governance and service delivery in many municipalities across South Africa, including iNdumiso Municipality1 in KwaZulu-Natal. Corruption in local governance has emerged as a significant barrier to effective service delivery by municipalities across South Africa. Acts of corruption do not only redirect essential resources away from critical community needs, but also reinforce inequality and impose the marginalisation of certain groups in the population. Due to the broad nature of corruption as an academic topic, it was deemed important and instructive to narrow down the scope of this investigation to a particular case to ensure that contextual factors would be suitably considered. In this instance, the case on the impact of corruption in service delivery was the iNdumiso Municipality. Local governments play a vital role in managing the delivery of basic services such as sanitation, water, and housing and form the government tier that is closest to communities (Sekibuule, 2012). Poor governance in municipalities can greatly affect public service delivery, either directly through higher pricing or indirectly through lower quality or frequency of available services. However, the high levels of corruption in local governments are associated with service delivery, therefore it was important to examine irregularities in service delivery to determine how a local community was affected by such malpractices, which unnecessarily impoverish citizens. The choice of iNdumiso as the study location was significant due to recent reports of corruption within this local government structure. These reports raised concerns about the efficiency and effectiveness of public service provision in this area. By focusing on this municipality, the study aimed to gain a deep understanding of the specific challenges faced by residents in accessing quality services and the role of corruption in exacerbating these issues. Due to the sensitive nature of the topic, a pseudonym is used to refer to the municipality under study. The research aimed to explore the prevalence, forms, and drivers of corruption within the municipality and analysed how these factors hindered the provision of essential services. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews involving 18 participants, including 10 municipal workers and 8 community members. The findings revealed that corruption in the iNdumiso Municipality manifested in several ways, including bribery, nepotism, and embezzlement. These corrupt practices had a direct and detrimental impact on the quality and accessibility of services such as water, sanitation, and infrastructure. Economic pressures, weak institutional frameworks, and cultural norms that tolerate unethical behaviour were identified as the key drivers of corruption. While the study found that some efforts had been made to address corruption, it was highlighted that these initiatives had been largely ineffective due to weak governance and lack of accountability. The research therefore emphasises the need for a more robust and collaborative approach to service delivery through initiatives that involve local government, community members, and civil society. It seems essential to combat corruption and improve service delivery in iNdumiso Municipality, and possibly other municipalities that experience similar challenges.Item Investigating the effect of overcrowding on the application of Covid-19 rules and regulations at Westville Correctional Facility.(2025) Faku, Yolanda.; Mbhele, Nkosingiphile Modeccai.Correctional centres in many countries, globally, are notorious for constant overcrowding, unhygienic, and lacking necessary facilities that allow for a dignified existence. In South Africa, it is speculated that inmates in each correctional facility have 2m2 of space between them, which contributes significantly to the transmission of diseases and viruses such as HIV, AIDS, TB, and even COVID-19 in correctional centres. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a viral infection presumed to be developed by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 also mainly known as SARS-Cov-2. This viral infection is considered to be predominantly circulate between people via close contact, aerosols and particles from the air expelled when talking, breathing, or just exhaling, in addition to those generated when coughing or sneezing. In an attempt to curb the spread of COVID-19, governments in different countries worldwide introduced protective COVID-19 protocols to which its citizens are to abide by in order to prevent as well as stop the spread of the virus, such as: individuals ought to practice social distancing at all times by avoiding crowded areas, encouraged the normalisation of no-contact greetings, and physically distancing themselves from others; quarantines should one encounter the virus; and travel restrictions. Unfortunately, such rules and regulations may not be easy to practice in correctional facilities due to overcrowding. Therefore, this study investigates the impact of overcrowding on the implementation of the COVID-19 rules and regulations at the Westville Correctional Facility, with the objective of gathering inmates' and administrators' perspectives on the different detrimental effects of overcrowding. Key findings: The COVID-19 rules and regulations were entirely impossible to be appropriately practiced due to the non-permitting environment in correctional facilities, such as the high density population which does not allow for Social Distancing; lack of resources to cater for those who those inmates who needed to be isolated for quarantine purposes; and but not least the inefficient medical assistance as not all inmates test and/or vaccinated. Recommendations: The main issue in correctional facilities is the number of inmates detained in each correctional institution and largely impacts the successes of the inmate’s rehabilitation stages as well as health and mental wellbeing. Therefore, to ensure subsequent housing of inmates, more correctional facilities ought to be built. Also, focus on increasing the availability of mental and physical health services in correctional facilities since COVID-19 brought attention to how vulnerable people in custodial environments are to health hazards, particularly those who already have a medical condition. Building strong healthcare systems in facilities ought to be a primary concern.Item An exploration of the exposure of high school teenagers to gender-based violence with specific focus on intimate partner violence: a case study of a selected school in Inchanga, KwaZulu-Natal.(2024) Sibisi, Noxolo Peaceful.; Ngubane, Londeka Princess.Intimate partner violence (IPV) is defined as abuse or aggression that occurs within a romantic relationship. It is a pervasive issue affecting individuals across various age groups and demographics. It falls under the umbrella of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and is a global pandemic which is also prevalent in South Africa. This study focuses on exploring high school teenagers' exposure to intimate partner violence in a selected school at Inchanga, KwaZulu-Natal. From the data gathered, it is evident that intimate partner violence (IPV) exists in a vicious cycle among teenagers, and there is limited research on the experiences of high school teenagers who have been exposed to IPV. This study aims to shed light on the prevalence of intimate partner violence among high school teenagers at Inchanga. Therefore, to gain insight into the exposure of high school teenagers on IPV specifically at the selected school in Inchanga. A qualitative study was conducted using individual interviews with participants. The participants were purposively sampled from different grades and genders to ensure representation. The participants included 5 males and 5 female high school learners aged between 15 and 18 years, four teachers, and a school principal. The findings were then thematically analysed and they revealed that IPV is influenced by various dynamics, including historical patriarchal cultural factors, socio-economic factors, the misconception that violence demonstrates love, and peer influence. It is also evident that domestic violence contributes significantly to the perpetuation of this phenomenon. Based on the findings, the study recommends that the school should implement comprehensive education programs that focus on healthy relationships, conflict resolution, and the prevention of IPV. These programs can help raise awareness among teenagers about the dynamics of healthy relationships and empower them to recognise and address signs of abuse. Furthermore, it is also recommended that there should be Collaboration with community organisations that specialise in intimate partner violence prevention to enhance their efforts in addressing this issue.Item An exploration of murder cases in Umlazi Township, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Province from the perspective of the South African Police Service.(2024) Sikhakhane, Nhlanzeko Nonjabulo.; Singh, Shanta Balgobind.This research explored the causes of murders in KwaZulu-Natal’s Umlazi township in Durban. The investigation focused on determining the nature and extent of homicides, identifying contributing factors, examining challenges faced by the South African Police Service in investigating murder cases, and reviewing current homicide prevention measures. Driven by a desire to understand the murder phenomenon in Umlazi, detailed data were gathered from selected participants. The findings will aid stakeholders in understanding the causes and factors that trigger murders, and the recommendations may help the SAPS develop effective preventive measures to reduce murder in Umlazi. To achieve the goals of this study, a qualitative research approach with an exploratory design was used. Data were collected from fourteen (14) murder detectives at the Umlazi police station, with one participant withdrawing. The remaining participants provided insights into the murder cases in Umlazi through interviews based on their first-hand experiences and understanding of the phenomenon. A purposive sampling method was applied, and in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant, recorded using a voice recorder. The data were then analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the nature of the murders in Umlazi was often brutal and traumatic resulting in psychological breakdowns among detectives. The study also found that murder incidences had significantly increased and were continuing to rise compared to earlier years. The primary contributing factors were alcohol and drug use, with robberies being a lesser factor. Detectives faced numerous challenges, including a lack of witness cooperation, heavy caseloads, personnel shortages, and limited resources which hindered effective investigations and delayed justice. Preventive measures, such as community policing forums, public order policing initiatives, preventative operations, patrols, and community awareness campaigns, were implemented. However, these measures were not effective as the rate of murder was escalating even at the closure of this study.Item Racial discrimination among high school learners: a case of a selected high school, Durban.(2025) Munguambe, Fernanda.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.In South Africa, many parents choose to enrol their children in multiracial schools where they believe that they will learn more about diversity and celebrate the freedom to study where they desire. However, this study was conceptualized in the belief that the Rainbow Nation is facing an undesirable occurrence among learners in such schools, as various reports and studies have claimed that racial discrimination continues to persist in high schools. Media reports have also affirmed that this widespread issue is prevalent across the country in multiracial schools. This means that learners are suffering because there are persistent incidences of racial discrimination among them. Schools are meant to be a secondary home for learners where they feel safe and learn more about the rich history of South Africa, and here they are educated not to make the same mistakes that our forefathers did. This study explored the extent, causes, and effects of racial discrimination among learners in a selected high school located on the Bluff in Durban. A qualitative research approach was adopted to understand the causes of racial discrimination in the 21st century, and data were collected using semistructured one-on-one interviews. The study recruited eighteen (18) participants: 6 teachers and 12 learners. The social learning, the ecological systems, and the racial trauma theories were used to support the research questions. The findings in this study show that Black learners are not the only race facing racism as White learners are equally exposed to racial discrimination. The study exposed what is commonly referred to as ‘reverse racism’, and the White learners found it hard to raise their concerns. Most scholarly works and the literature support the notion that it is Black learners, or learners of colour, who are exposed to racist slurs, while White learners are the perpetrators. Furthermore, the learners were more outspoken than the teachers. When the teachers were asked to comment on cases of racism in the school, most of them said they had not witnessed any such incidents. However, the learners confidently said that racial discrimination was everywhere and that it was not only prevalent among learners. They argued that teachers discriminated against learners when they said, “I see no colour”. This made them feel invisible and unrecognised. It is evident that racial integration and tolerance should be encouraged among learners and teachers alike.Item Homophobic victimisation: understanding the gender prejudice faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.(2024) Bagwandin, Ronica.; Hadebe, Philisiwe Nicole.This study focused on homophobic victimisation experienced by gay, lesbians, bisexuals and transgenders living in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. In particular, the study investigated the victimisation experienced by participants based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It explored the contributing characteristics and factors that made them vulnerable to homophobic victimisation. It sought to understand the effects such homophobic victimisation had on them and to explore how participants navigate their identity to avoid further victimisation. It further explored participants’ perceptions about reporting victimisation to the police. To elicit data, a qualitative interpretive phenomenological approach was adopted. Purposive sampling was used to select 5 gay, 5 lesbian, 5 bisexual and 5 transgender participants. The researcher employed in-depth interviews as the primary source of the data collection method. The data was analysed through a thematic analysis process. This involved identifying themes from participants’ responses as they emerged. The findings revealed that the participants experienced extreme bullying based on their sexual orientation. The homophobic victimisation participants have suffered were violently inflicted on them through physical assault through beatings, psychological bullying through derogatory name calling, sexual assaults and violations through physical sexual attacks, sexual harassments and sexual intimidation. Participants reported being victimised based on their same-sex attraction, gender identity and non-conformance to traditional gender role beliefs. Respondents echoed that strong cultural and religious tenets enforced traditional heteronormative behaviour through; the regulation of heterosexuality and the ostracizing of homosexuality, and contributed to their own internalised homophobia and homophobic victimisation they experience. The mental, emotional and psychological harm reported by participants demonstrated the lasting negative effects that such victimisations has on them. The findings also revealed the various strategies and coping mechanisms participants have had to adopt to prevent further victimisation. Participants’ perception of reporting victimisation to the police revealed that that the fear of re-victimisation and poor police service deterred them while some participants felt it was their right to be protected by the South African Police. This study recommends that society change the narrative of enforcing heterosexuality as the norm and be more inclusive to other sexual orientations. Globally, this can be achieved through scrapping laws that criminalise same-sex behaviour; media representation of homosexuality should be more inclusive and not just sensationalizing reports of homophobic attacks; education sectors need to include other sexual orientations into their teaching programs; and training for people within the criminal justice system is required in order for them to treat victims of homophobic attacks with the respect they deserve.Item An exploratory study of bullying in the University of KwaZulu-Natal residences.(2024) Ntshangase, Naniwe Innocentia.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.Bullying in university residences is a pervasive but often overlooked issue even though it disrupts the academic success and overall well-being of students. At the University of KwaZulu-Natal, bullying takes many forms and creates a hostile environment for students living in both on-campus and off-campus residences. This study investigated the nature, causes, and impacts of bullying in UKZN residences and it also explored intervention strategies that could help reduce incidences of bullying. Fifteen undergraduate students (n = 15), two Risk Management Services personnel (n = 2), and two Residence Liaison Officers (n = 2) with personal experiences of bullying were interviewed using semi-structured interviews. This approach was aligned with the study's qualitative research design, which aimed to explore participants' experiences in depth. These interviews provided crucial insights into the nature of the bullying problem in UKZN residences. The routine activity theory was employed to analyse why certain environments made students more vulnerable to bullying than others, while the social learning theory explained how bullying behaviours were acquired and reinforced within the residential settings under study. The findings were that emotional, cyber, and physical bullying were the most prevalent forms of bullying that the students encountered. Factors that contributed to bullying included power imbalances, social hierarchy, substance abuse, and negative childhood experiences. These behaviours had severe consequences for the victims and significantly impacted their mental health, academic performance, and social lives. Many victims reported experiencing depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. They also struggled academically due to stress, lack of concentration, and absenteeism, while socially they experienced isolation and withdrawal from peer interactions. To address these issues, the study recommends implementing awareness campaigns and student-centred programs that foster positive relationships and reduce the occurrence of bullying in residences. Creating a safer and more inclusive living environment is essential for enhancing student well-being and academic success.Item A victimological analysis on the experiences of educators in government schools as victims of workplace bullying in Pietermaritzburg.(2024) Hlungwane, Xolisile Charlnelle.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.Workplace bullying is not a recent phenomenon, extensive research has been conducted to examine this form of violence. However, while there has been an increase in research on workplace bullying, far too little attention has been paid to the impact of workplace bullying on South African educators, particularly in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, and the challenges they face on a daily basis. Workplace bullying persists as a pervasive issue worldwide, impacting both unorganised public sectors and educational institutions. This violence poses a significant threat to peace and security and infringes upon the human rights of affected individuals. In recent years, this problem has increased, and its exploitative and manipulative nature has destroyed the lives many educators. The aim of this study is to investigate the experiences of educators in government schools as victims of workplace bullying in Pietermaritzburg. It determines the motivating factors that contribute to workplace bullying. It explores the various forms of workplace bullying experienced in these schools, it determines the effects on the victims and examines strategic intervention measures to successfully tackle this violence. To accomplish the study’s goals and objectives, the researcher used the qualitative data method of research, which offered a methodical framework for data collection techniques. The study explored the authentic views of the educators using semi-structured interviews. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 participants who were sampled using a non-probability sampling technique. The interviews were held in July 2024. All the participants were from Pietermaritzburg and were sampled using a purposive sampling method. Thirteen educators were females and two were males. The participants shared their views on the motivating factors and forms of workplace bullying, and the effects these factors have on them. According to the study, the majority of educators in the government schools being investigated have been victims of emotional, verbal, psychological, and neglectful bullying. The study finds that educators suffer long-term consequences from bullying, and the majority of this violence goes unreported. In this context, South Africa's approach to workplace bullying should be focused on developing a system that can guide practices to completely eradicate it. This could be done by strictly enforcing existing laws and utilising cooperative strategic measures. The Department of Education (DoE) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are two examples of agencies that should not be complacent in dealing with this violence.Item A criminological exploration of queerphobic violence and victimisation of self-identifying queer sexual minority in KwaMashu Township.(2024) Buthelezi, Ayanda Nomfundo.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.South Africa is internationally celebrated for its progressive Constitution, which guarantees fundamental human rights, freedom, and equality. However, the country grapples with pervasive crime, violence, and ongoing discrimination, including hate speech and hate crimes, particularly against queer individuals. While the Bill of Rights prohibits discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation and mandates national legislation to prevent such discrimination, a gap exists between these legal protections and the lived realities of queer communities, especially in township settings. This study focused on queerphobic violence and victimization experienced by self-identifying sexual minorities in KwaMashu Township, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. It explored the nature and consequences of victimisation, perceptions of queerphobic violence, the adequacy of available support and interventions, and the strategies employed by queer individuals to navigate their safety in this context. Using a qualitative approach, the study purposively sampled 15 queer participants from the Imvelo Yesizwe Organisation in KwaMashu. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analysed thematically. Findings revealed that significant victimisation of queer individuals is rooted in societal prejudice, lack of knowledge about diverse sexual orientations, and inadequate education about homosexuality. The study highlights the urgent need for educational initiatives to address misconceptions and reduce violence against queer communities in township settings.Item The role played by religion and spirituality in the rehabilitation of former gang members in the Durban Metropolitan.(2025) Soofie, Zaheer Ahmed.; Gopal, Nirmala Devi.Gangsterism is not a new problem and is not inherent to South Africa alone. However, the problem is widespread in South Africa and within the city of Durban and it is surrounding areas. Durban has been plagued by the overwhelming and increasing number of gang-based crimes. Minimal studies addressing this problem in Durban have been published. Most studies have been on the gangs of the Western-cape and the prison number gang system. It is not uncommon that active and former gang members try to desist from gang life and pursue a path of rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Nor is it uncommon for them try to re-invent themselves to achieve pro-social identities. Religiosity has always been a powerful desister in combatting criminality. It has served as a platform for gang rehabilitation and disassociation amongst gang members globally. This study intricately studies the role of religion/spirituality in the lives of former gang-members by reflecting on the lives of people who had once adopted this aspect of criminality. This study adopted a qualitative approach embedded within the interpretivist paradigm. This study is founded on the Desistance theory of criminology. Data was collected using in-dept interviews with 10 purposively selected participants. The approach and techniques utilized in this study are described concisely to provide a clear picture of how data is collated, and the researcher has used what academics refer to as the “journey motif” to accurately and rationally describe the research setting as well as provide grounds for the research design considered ideal for this study. The findings have shown that each participant had life changing experiences that served as a precursor for desistance and that religion was at the core, filling in the gaps of the lives they once pursued. Findings revealed that life-changing experiences, alongside spirituality and religious practices, played a key role in gang disengagement. Psycho-social factors contributed to initial gang involvement, while desistance was met with challenges such as fear for safety, estrangement from family, and financial loss. Some participants maintained ties with former gang associates despite leaving the lifestyle. Spirituality facilitated identity reconstruction and personal growth. The study highlighted the significance of faith-based interventions in promoting long-term desistance and reintegration.Item Crime and victimization: an exploratory study into the lives of homeless youth in eThekwini Metropolitan Precinct.(2024) Myaka, Msizi Asanda.; Maweni, Vuyelwa Kemiso.Homelessness is one of the most global challenges characterized by its ongoing expansion and enduring nature. Its exacerbation is masked by predictable and unpredictable events like natural disasters or death of a parent/guardian, which makes it hard to eradicate or lessen. Employing qualitative research methods, this study explored the crimes and victimizations experienced by the homeless youth of Durban Metropolitan precinct. This study applied exponential nondiscriminative snowball sampling technique to select participants, with data being collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Data was analysed using inductive thematic analysis. The thesis employed a theoretical incorporation of strain theory and deviant place theory. The study explored the experiences of twelve (12) participants, divided into two (2) subgroups, namely the homeless youth and NGO personnel. Four main themes surfaced around the concept of crimes and victimizations experienced by the homeless youth of Durban. The themes were drug use as a push and pull factor, the relationship shared by the homeless youth, community and law enforcement involvement, and sexual abuse and violence. Sexual abuse like rape, and acts of violence like stabbings were found to be a part of the main reasons the homeless youth get victimized in the study. The homeless youth participants highlighted drugs as the major influencer behind the criminal acts like theft that some of the homeless youth engage in. The relationship the homeless youth have with each other was another highlighted reason as to why the homeless youth get victimized, and engage in crime. The homeless youth maintain interpersonal connections with selected few people, but as a whole they are not a united cohesive community entity. The NGO personnel interviewed were from the Denis Hurley Centre. The NGO participants highlighted the services provided to the homeless youth such as health care provision and food assistance, and the challenges confronted by the NGOs. The participants also highlighted that the eThekwini municipality still provides limited support to the NGOs with helping the homeless population of Durban.Item Effects of livestock theft on the livelihood of people in rural communities: a case study of AmaCwerha Traditional Authority in Alfred Ndzo District, Eastern Cape Province.(2024) Nogwaza, Balisa.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.Abstract available in PDF.Item An exploratory study of violent behaviours perpetrated against homeless people: a case study of Durban Central Business District.(2023) Mthembu, Nosipho Nombulelo.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.Abstract available in PDF.Item An exploratory study on the partnership between private security industry and the South African Police Services to combat crime in South Africa, Durban.(2022) Phakathi, Sinethemba.; Mbhele, Nkosingiphile Modeccai.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.Abstract available in PDF.Item The silent victim: an explorative study on the nature of male sexual victimisation in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal.(2023) Zondo, Andiswa Naledi.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.Abstract available in PDF.Item A criminological analysis of the commission of cybercrime in the South African banking industry: a case study of cybercrime in banks in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.(2022) Pillay, Perushka.; Ntuli, Precious Nolwazi.As expenditures in broadband infrastructure in developing countries have increased and barriers to internet access have decreased, this infrastructure has rapidly become a target for cybercrime. Developing countries such as South Africa, Kenya, and India have become the preferred destination for cybercriminals owing to their lack of cyber regulations and the prevalence of cybercrime illiteracy. Cybercrime has plagued numerous sectors in the South African landscape, one of which is the banking industry. This industry has experienced multiple types of cybercrime such as phishing, vishing, spams, identity theft, hacking, and malware. As all banks now rely on digital networks for their business operations, the risk of becoming a cybercrime victim has increased for both the banking industry and its clients. The focus of this study was to establish and analyse the causes of the increased rate of cybercrime in banks and to determine the effectiveness of legislation in addressing the threat posed by cybercrime to the banking industry. The study explored selected South African Police Service (SAPS) detectives’ experiences regarding cybercrime and ascertained these detectives’ views on factors that contribute to cybercrime within the banking industry. The researcher utilised a qualitative methodology as this approach allowed the elicitation of the view of various participants. The study could therefore focus on actual issues associated with cybercrime rather than on statistical significance. Ten detectives who investigated cybercrime in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal were interviewed and some intriguing findings concerning cybercrime were uncovered. The study revealed the prevalence of internal fraud within the banking industry, poor internal controls, ineffective processes and systems, banking clients’ lack of knowledge and awareness of the looming threat of cybercrime, low conviction rates for cybercriminals; and SAPS officials’ lack of skills in policing cybercrime in KwaZulu- Natal as some of the key factors that exacerbate cybercriminal activities in the banking industry. Based on the transnational character of cybercrime, it had been concluded that majority of the banks in South Africa and many other countries are under threat of cybercrime, and therefore they need to coordinate and implement a unified effort to tackle the growing threat of cybercriminal activities in the banking industry.Item A systematic review of domestic violence impact on children during the Covid-19 lockdown in South Africa.(2022) Govender, Keemera.; Singh, Shanta Balgobind.This research is relevant to the examination of the impact of domestic violence on children during the COVID-19 lockdown, which is a public health concern. Domestic violence has been prevalent in South Africa before the COVID-19 lockdown. However, with the onset of COVID-19 and the lockdown measures that were implemented, the rate of domestic violence has increased, drastically. Domestic violence is not a new phenomenon as previous research has been done in this area, however, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic meant that more research questions needed to be unpacked. The Routine Activity Theory and the Situational Action Theory were used to understand the Dynamics of domestic violence on children. The stress of the pandemic impacted everyone as people were confined to their homes, which meant that there were changes in one’s routines and situations. Parents had to work from home and children had to learn at home. In essence, this modus operandi led to the victimisation of children as victims and perpetrators shared the same spaces. The pragmatic paradigm constituted the best fit in answering the key research questions. The convergent mixed-methods approach was used in to explore the cause-and-effect of domestic violence on children during the COVID-19 lockdown. The data were selected through the collection of secondary data through a systematic review. For the review to be done secondary data was collected, analysed, and then merged to provide results. The qualitative notational approach was incorporated as the qualitative data contributed to the majority of the study, while the quantitative data only contributed minute amounts to the overall study. This research was very complex therefore both qualitative and quantitative data had to be collected because a single approach data collection would limit the understanding of the research problem. The research design was selected based on the paradigm that was used in this study. The concurrent triangulation research design was employed as the collected data were merged to address each research objective. The non-probability, purposive sample technique was implemented to select research material as data needed to be selected based on relevance and ‘purpose’. The overall image that emerged from existing literature has evidence about how domestic violence impact children. From the respective vantage points of the various researchers, there were many inferences made regarding this topic. Particularly, there has been definite research indicating that the lockdown posed the risk of domestic violence on children and that domestic violence does impact children during the COVID-19 lockdown period either mentally, physically, or biologically. This has led to many challenges in children’s lives. No South African legislation specifically protects children from domestic violence, however other legislative acts can be adapted to protect children from abuse. Many services that protect children from domestic violence abuse in South Africa are not prioritised, therefore the services have declined. The result of the COVID-19 lockdown has seen increasing numbers with regards to domestic violence in South Africa. However, the extent of the domestic violence cases has not been reported accurately. Therefore, the data cannot be reliable. The study provides insightful effective strategies that can be used to help South Africa and other countries to advance the research practice, as well as to help end domestic violence even when not in a pandemic situation. The disruptive impact of domestic violence affects everyone as many countries are fighting through the COVID-19 pandemic. The lockdown caused irreversible effects on a child that became a victim of domestic violence as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. From the data gathered, domestic violence against children generates negative emotions for them. To protect children, there must be a collaborative approach to mitigate the issue of domestic violence against children. Effective strategies are discussed in this study to help victims of domestic violence. The overview of the study focused on understanding the risks associated with the COVID-19 lockdown, as social isolation had been seen to cause and impact children during the lockdown.Item An explorative study of environmental design and crime: a case study of Merebank, Durban.(2021) Naicker, Tyla.; Sibisi, Nomakhosi Nomathemba.Despite the lapse of twenty-seven years since the abolishment of apartheid in South Africa, the effects of segregationist policies on the demarcation of residential areas based on race and the associated design of built environments have endured. History-based conversations regarding inadequately designed built environments have generated the debate as to whether these environments have the potential to contribute to crime causation. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the impact of apartheid-generated environmental design on crime causation in the residential area of Merebank in Durban, South Africa. As Merebank is regarded as a previously disadvantaged area that was developed under the apartheid regime, this community was deemed appropriate for an investigation to achieve the aim of this study. A review of related literature indicated that property crimes correlate with disorderly built environments where crime prevention strategies are seldom considered or employed. The study was thus motivated by frequently reported incidences of property crime that affected the residents of Merebank. In alignment with this goal, this study explored the Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) model to reduce and prevent crime, whilst perceptions of fear of crime were also investigated among community members. To ensure that the goals of this study would be achieved, a qualitative interpretive methodological approach was adopted. The main data collection instrument was semi-structured interviews that were conducted with 15 lifelong residents of Merebank. The majority of these people had resided in the community throughout the apartheid era and beyond. The participants were selected by means of purposive sampling and thematic data analysis was performed. It was found that crime causation in Merebank was perpetuated by apartheid zoning and the existence of an inadequately designed built environment. The main finding of this study surprisingly indicated that residents of Merebank had felt safer in this area during the apartheid era. This was attributed to the control that was imposed upon the movement of citizens as a result of the implementation of the Group Areas Act1 No. 41 of 1950 (Parliament of South Africa, 1950). Moreover, current-day crime prevention was largely attributed to private security companies and not to the South African Police Service, whereas social cohesion varied amongst Merebank neighbourhoods. CPTED was barely understood and thus rarely utilised by members of the community, while their prevalent fear of crime and perceptions of criminal activities were perpetuated as a result of the inadequately designed built environment and, more particularly, the zoning of this residential area based on race in the apartheid era.Item An exploratory study on ukuthwala and crime: a perspective of inqaba kamvelinqangi cultural organization.(2021) Hlophe, Phindile.; Mkhize, Sazelo Michael.Ukuthwala evokes emotive responses, with those who either support or oppose the practice. Ukuthwala has also resulted in public debate due to abductions which are viewed as against the young women's consent, but not much has been done to investigate the practice of ukuthwala among the Zulus of KwaZulu Natal (KZN) in post-1994 South Africa. Therefore, this study investigates the original or real meaning of the culture of ukuthwala in the Zulu and it linkage to crime. The study is motivated by the misunderstandings or misinterpretations people have about the culture of ukuthwala. It has been labeled as abusive and as a crime by certain scholars while it is just a cultural practice that was meant to solve a problem between a young man and a young woman who were in a love relationship and intended to marry, but were faced with obstacles to realize their dream (Nyembezi & Nxumalo, 1995). It is a qualitative study. This study highlights the ongoing debate as to whether ukuthwala may be practiced as a means to open up the marriage negotiation process, and concludes that both men and women understand ukuthwala as a Zulu custom which opens up marriage negotiation process. Accordingly, ukuthwala in this traditional form is understood as not violating the rights of young women and children. This study encountered the challenge that the South African laws fail to ensure that the abuse of the culture of ukuthwala is firstly eradicated and secondly that there are criminal sanctions for the violation. Ukuthwala is a Zulu custom that opens up a space for women’s agency where they can decide to marry a man they choose and end the relationship they do not want. In this way the women are able to command the men whom they love, and who have resources and therefore are also powerful to act in a way the woman wants with regard to initiating negotiations for the marriage. However, it can also be viewed as a Zulu custom carried out by powerful men who have resources and therefore can pay ilobolo (bride wealth), as a power display directed at other men who happen to be their competitors. The study also conceives of ukuthwala as a cultural practice, and as a social construction that is gendered; it adopts zero tolerance to the abduction of young women. The study suggests that if all stakeholders work together through the process of collaboration, interventions are possible and criminals can be sanctioned. The study recommends further research of issues pertaining to culture, sex, sexuality, gender, masculinities and ukuthwala, in order to support an intervention into the socialization of boys, to help them in making informed decisions before engaging in ukuthwala.Item Investigating Nigerian foreign nationals’ experiences of violence, safety and security on 'Point Road', Durban, South Africa.(2022) Ikyoive, Joseph Tertsea.; Gopal, Nirmala Devi.The purpose of the study was to explore the experiences of Nigerian foreign nationals on inter- ethnic violence, safety, and security on Point Road in the Durban area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The study intended to understand the nuances of Nigerian foreign nationals in Durban and how it provides a catalyst for violent confrontations subsequently undermining their rights to a safe climate. Added to this, the study intended to understand factors that create conditions for inter-ethnic rivalry and violence between Nigerian foreign nationals. The study was located appropriately within the interpretive paradigm that views reality as subjective and built from an individual’s lived experiences. Besides, the case study as a research method was used to understand the experiences of participants for the study. The researcher generated data for the study using semi-structured interviews from 10 participants. The interview process was done through tape recordings and the data analyzed using the thematic method of analysis. Using Pierre Bourdieu’s Theory of Practice and Merton’s Strain theory, the generated data show that nuances between Nigerians through ethnicity instigate various forms of violence. Data also showed that Nigerian foreign nationals involved in altercations often take advantage of the economic vulnerability of South African street urchins commonly referred to as “izigebengu” or “Paras” who accept small amounts of money to carry out most of the violent confrontations. The data also showed that, the lack of response and the discriminatory attitudes posed by law enforcement officers in attending to the internal safety and security of Nigerian foreign nationals’ act against international humanitarian best practices and lends credence to other prevailing odds such as under-reported violent experiences. The study recommended that further research can be done to explore and understand how Nigerian foreign nationals’ victims of violent attacks cope with the situation of insecurity they encounter in their daily lives, including the recovery of their goods or property damaged if not stolen throughout the attacks. Whether they orchestrate these attacks, the government and different stakeholders must come together and implement policies that render security at the primary site of the study and deter potential attackers from committing similar or the same inhuman activities.