The South African Police and other law enforcement agencies have arrested 1 230 people by midday on Tuesday in connection with public violence and looting.
In KwaZulu-Natal, 547 suspects were arrested, while 683 are in custody in Gauteng.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said it was putting together a team of special prosecutors who have been instructed to oppose bail for those arrested for public violence and economic sabotage.
Spokesperson, Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga, said the NPA would uphold the rule of law by ensuring that justice is delivered without fear, favour or prejudice.
The number of people who have lost their lives since violent protests began last week has climbed to 72.
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) said in KZN they are investigating 14 murders and 13 inquests and in Gauteng, 19 murders and 26 inquests.
Meanwhile, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) said they were deeply concerned with the acts of criminality which are putting strain on the police’s resources.
IPID said investigators are not able to attend to certain crime scenes and cannot reach the bodies of deceased persons due to the chaos taking place in certain areas.
