KwaZulu-Natal is reeling after a mass shooting left 11 people dead. Three others were wounded on Tuesday night. Police have now launched an intensive manhunt for the suspects.
Gunmen Open Fire at KwaMakhutha Gathering
The deadliest attack happened in the Ziko area of KwaMakhutha, south of Durban. Gunmen opened fire at a house where a group had gathered, believed to be a party.
Police say about 14 people were at the property. This included 13 men and a woman believed to be pregnant. At least three men arrived and opened fire. Ten people died at the scene. Paramedics took four survivors to hospital, and one later died from their injuries.
Attackers also set alight a vehicle belonging to one of the victims. The motive remains under investigation.
Police Probe Possible Gang Link
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said investigators are examining whether rival criminal groupings drove the attack.
“We are investigating the motive for the shooting, but what we need to mention as well is that our crime intelligence have already identified some of the victims who they say had been on their radar for illegal activities, which for now we cannot divulge because of investigations. So, the motive is not yet known, but we cannot rule out a feud between rival gangs or groupings,” Netshiunda said.
72-Hour Manhunt Launched
Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has ordered a 72-hour tracking operation to find the suspects. National police spokesperson Nonkululeko Phokane said investigators are already following a promising lead.
“There is no place in our communities for the senseless taking of human lives. Police must act decisively, mobilise all available resources and pursue those responsible until they are brought before the courts,” Phokane said. “We are confident that investigators are following a promising lead which could assist in securing a breakthrough in this case.”
Community Raises Concerns Over Crime
The KwaMakhutha community has also raised concerns about crime in the area. Residents told KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli that drugs and illegal firearms are a serious problem. Many said they hear gunshots regularly.
Police urge anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the South African Police Service or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.