Gunmen opened fire inside a house in KwaMakhutha, near Durban, killing 11 people and wounding others. Police say 14 people were attacked — 10 died at the scene and one more later in hospital — and that the group included a woman believed to be pregnant. Investigators said some victims were under police watch for alleged illegal activity and have not ruled out a feud between rival groups. A manhunt is underway for suspects reported to be armed with pistols and rifles.
11 Killed in KwaMakhutha Mass Shooting Near Durban — Police Launch Manhunt
South Africa has one of the world's highest murder rates [SAPS]
At least 11 people were killed after gunmen attacked a house in the KwaMakhutha township, near Durban, South Africa.
What Happened
Police say three armed men burst into a residence late on Tuesday and opened fire on a group of 14 people. Ten victims died at the scene; four were taken to hospital and one later died, bringing the confirmed death toll to 11. Authorities reported that the group included 13 men and one woman who is believed to have been pregnant.
[BBC]
Police added that some of those killed were already under police watch in connection with alleged illegal activity, but said they could not "divulge at the moment to protect investigations which have been launched." Investigators have not confirmed a motive and said they could not rule out a "feud between rival groupings."
A local eNCA reporter at the scene said the gunmen set fire to a vehicle belonging to one of the victims before fleeing; footage circulating online showed a burnt-out car. Officers have launched a manhunt for the suspects, who were reported to be carrying pistols and rifles.
[BBC]
Wider Context
The attack comes amid growing concern over violent crime in South Africa. Police statistics show the country has one of the highest murder rates in the world, equivalent to more than 60 deaths a day. In recent weeks, the discovery of at least nine murdered women — some of whose bodies were dumped beside roads — has increased public alarm.
Last year, nine people were killed in a mass shooting at a Johannesburg tavern. In February, President Cyril Ramaphosa described organised crime as "the most immediate threat to our democracy, our society and our economic development" and announced plans to deploy the military to support police efforts against organised criminal networks.
Police Statement:
"Information available at this stage suggests that 13 men and one woman, who is believed to be pregnant, were reportedly having a party inside a house when three men arrived and opened fire on them."
Authorities continue to investigate and have appealed for anyone with information or footage from the scene to come forward.
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