Manhunt underway after 17 people killed in 2 mass shootings in South Africa

Police in South Africa are searching for suspects following two mass shootings in the town of Lusikisiki, located in Eastern Cape province. The tragic incidents, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, September 28, 2024, resulted in the deaths of 17 people, including 15 women and two men. An 18th victim remains in critical condition in the hospital.

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed the fatalities, stating that the shootings took place at two homes within close proximity to each other in a rural area on the outskirts of Lusikisiki. In one house, 12 women and a man were killed, while three women and a man were killed in the second house.

The victims are believed to have been relatives and neighbors who had gathered to prepare for a traditional ritual, marking the end of the mourning period for a mother and daughter who were murdered a year ago. Local mayor Nonkosi Pepping stated that the gunmen arrived and randomly opened fire, killing everyone in the homes, including women and children. The shootings have left the community in shock and fear.

South Africa has one of the highest homicide rates globally, and mass shootings have become more frequent in recent years, often targeting people in their homes. Contract killings in the country are known to be relatively inexpensive, contributing to the growing violence. Just last April, a mass shooting in the neighboring KwaZulu-Natal province claimed the lives of 10 family members, including seven women and a 13-year-old boy.

Authorities have launched a manhunt to apprehend those responsible for the killings. “The South African Police Service is committed to bringing the perpetrators of these brutal killings to justice and ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” Brigadier Mathe said.