A 72-hour manhunt has been launched by South African police for three gunmen accused of killing 11 people, including a pregnant woman, during a shooting at a house in KwaMakhutha, south of Durban. The incident occurred on Tuesday night in the Ziko area of KwaMakhutha. Acting national police commissioner Lt-Gen Puleng Puleng Dimpane directed KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to activate the tracking operation.
According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, preliminary information indicated that 13 men and one woman, believed to be pregnant, were attending a party at the house when three men arrived and opened fire. Ten victims, including the woman, died at the scene, while four were taken to hospital. One of those died later, bringing the death toll to 11.
The motive for the shooting has not yet been established, but police said a feud between rival groupings could not be ruled out. Preliminary investigations revealed that some of the victims were on the Crime Intelligence radar in connection with illegal activities. However, police could not disclose further details at this stage, as it could compromise ongoing investigations.
Lt-Gen Puleng Dimpane expressed concern over the loss of life and conveyed her condolences to the families of the victims. She also wished those injured a speedy recovery. Dimpane emphasized that police must act decisively, mobilize all available resources, and pursue those responsible until they are brought before the courts.
Police have appealed to locals to provide reliable and credible information that could assist investigators in identifying, tracing, and apprehending the gunmen. Information can be provided directly to the investigating team or anonymously through Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be submitted through the MySAPS app.
Investigators are following a promising lead that could assist in securing a breakthrough in the case. Police are confident that they will make a breakthrough and bring those responsible to justice. The police have assured the public that they will not relent in their efforts to ensure that those responsible for this attack are brought to justice.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, and the community is urged to cooperate with the police to bring the perpetrators to justice. The police are working tirelessly to investigate the incident and bring closure to the families of the victims.
Key points
- The police have launched a 72-hour manhunt for the three gunmen.
- The victims included a pregnant woman, and the motive for the shooting is still unknown.
- The police are appealing for information from the public to help apprehend the gunmen.
