In brief
Gunmen burst into a KwaMakhutha house near Durban, killing 10 and wounding four, one of whom later died. Police suspect a gang feud or illicit activity as motives and have launched a manhunt. The incident adds to the country’s several dozen daily murders, prompting President Ramaphosa to pledge military support to curb organised crime.
Eleven Killed in Mass Shooting at House in South Africa
At least 11 people were killed in a violent attack at a private residence in the township of KwaMakhutha near Durban.
Gunmen burst into a house late on Tuesday evening and opened fire on party attendees, killing 10 at the scene and injuring four more, one of whom later died in hospital.
Police say some of the victims were involved in illegal activities, but the exact motive remains unclear. Authorities suspect a feud between rival groups may have been the trigger.
Witnesses report that three gunmen arrived at the house, then fired indiscriminately at a crowd of 13 men and a pregnant woman, who was among the fatalities.
The shooting was accompanied by the burning of a vehicle owned by one of the victims, with police capturing footage of the damaged car.
Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
South Africa’s police statistics show more than 60 murders per day – one of the highest rates globally – and recent weeks have seen a rash of violent murders, especially of women.
In a statement last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa called organised crime “the most immediate threat to our democracy, economy and society” and pledged military support to law enforcement.
