The number of people who died in Phoenix in KwaZulu-Natal after violent lootings and riots, have risen to 36.

This was announced by Police Minister Bheki Cele at a media briefing in Durban this morning.

He revealed at the same time that what he called a possible big fish in the instigation of the deadly violence, has been arrested.

Cele was flanked by KwaZulu-Natal premier Sihle Zikalala at the Inanda police station, as they gave an update on the issues relating to the violence in Phoenix.

Radio Islam Spoke to Cele’s pokesperson, Lirandzu Themba.