South Africa Mass Shooting Leaves 11 Dead as Police Hunt Three Attackers

Gunmen Storm House Party

At least 11 people have been killed and three others wounded after three gunmen opened fire at a house party in KwaMakhutha, south of Durban, in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province. The shooting happened late Tuesday night, September 22.

Pregnant Woman Among Victims

Police said 13 men and a woman believed to be pregnant were inside the house when the attackers arrived and opened fire. Ten people, including the woman, died at the scene, while a fourth victim was taken to hospital and later died from their injuries.

Three People Injured

Three other people survived the attack with gunshot wounds and were taken to hospital for treatment. Police had not immediately provided details about their conditions. The identities of the victims were also still being established as families began identifying their relatives.

Police Launch Manhunt

The South African Police Service has launched a manhunt for the three attackers. Acting National Commissioner Puleng Dimpane has directed authorities to activate a 72-hour tracking operation aimed at locating and arresting those responsible.

Motive Remains Unknown

Police said the motive for the shooting has not yet been confirmed. However, investigators said some of the victims were known to Crime Intelligence in connection with alleged illegal activities. Authorities said this information could not be disclosed because related investigations are continuing.

Rival Feud Investigated

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said investigators could not yet establish the motive but would not rule out a possible feud between rival groups. The circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation.

Car Set Alight

Police are also investigating whether a vehicle that was set on fire near the house was connected to the shooting. Forensic investigators were at the scene collecting evidence while officers secured the surrounding area.

Premier Condemns Violence

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli expressed condolences to the victims’ families and said the provincial government would continue working with law enforcement and communities to address violence. The shooting comes as authorities are also dealing with wider concerns about killings and violence against women in the province.

Scene Secured by Police

The house where the shooting occurred was cordoned off as investigators examined the crime scene. Bodies of some of the victims were covered with white sheets outside the property before being removed by authorities.

Latest in Series of Mass Shootings

The KwaMakhutha attack is the latest in a series of mass shootings in South Africa. In June, 12 people were killed in a mass shooting in Cleveland, Johannesburg, while two separate shootings in December killed 21 people.

Investigation Continues

Police have appealed for information that could help identify and locate the three attackers. Investigators are continuing to examine evidence from the scene, the burned vehicle and possible links between the victims and criminal activity.