The South African Police Service (SAPS) has initiated a 72-hour tracking operation in KwaZulu-Natal to pursue and apprehend the suspects responsible for a fatal shooting that claimed 11 lives. The operation was directed by Lieutenant General Puleng Puleng Dimpane, the Acting National Commissioner of SAPS. The shooting incident occurred in the Ziko area of KwaMakhutha, south of Durban, on Tuesday night, 22 September 2026.
According to SAPS, the suspects entered a house where 13 men and one woman, believed to be pregnant, were gathered, and opened fire, killing 11 people and injuring three others. Ten victims, including the woman, died at the scene, while four were taken to hospital, with one succumbing to gunshot injuries. The police are still investigating the motive behind the shooting.
Lieutenant General Dimpane expressed her deep concern over the senseless loss of life and conveyed her condolences to the families of the deceased. She urged the police to act decisively, mobilize all available resources, and pursue those responsible until they are brought before the courts. Dimpane also assured that investigators are following a promising lead that could assist in securing a breakthrough in the case.
The police are appealing to community members to provide investigators with reliable and credible information that can assist in identifying, tracing, and apprehending the suspects. Information can be provided to the investigating team or anonymously through Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or by leaving an anonymous tip-off on the MySAPS APP.
Preliminary investigations have revealed that some of the victims were on Crime Intelligence's radar in connection with illegal activities. A feud between rival groupings cannot be ruled out, according to the police. The authorities have assured that they will not relent in their efforts to ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
The 72-hour tracking operation aims to intensify the search for the suspects and bring them to justice. The police are working to establish the motive behind the shooting and identify the suspects. The community's cooperation and support are crucial in helping the police to crack the case.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, and authorities are urging calm and cooperation from the public. The police are committed to ensuring that those responsible for the violence are held accountable. The government has condemned the senseless violence and pledged to do everything possible to prevent such incidents in the future.
Key points
- The South African Police Service has launched a 72-hour tracking operation to apprehend the suspects behind the fatal shooting of 11 people in KwaZulu-Natal.
- The police are investigating the motive behind the shooting, which may be linked to a feud between rival groupings or the victims' involvement in illegal activities.
- The authorities are urging community members to provide information that can assist in identifying and apprehending the suspects.
