A man was beaten to death by community members in Umlazi K section in Durban on Thursday, KwaZulu-Natal police said.

"Community members allegedly used sticks and knives to hit the man. He died on the scene," said Inspector Bonginkosi Thabethe.

The 21-year-old man was accused of causing trouble in the community by breaking into houses and stealing, said Thabethe.

"We as the police do not accept this kind of behaviour. People should report crimes to police not take them into their own hands," he said.

No arrests were made and a murder case was opened. - Sapa