KZN Premier Visits KwaMakhutha Mass Shooting Scene as Police Launch Manhunt

KWAMAKHUTHA, DURBAN — KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli visited the eZiko area in KwaMakhutha on Wednesday morning following a mass shooting that left 11 people dead and three others injured.

The incident reportedly occurred late on Tuesday night when 14 people were gathered at a property.

According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, three armed men allegedly entered the premises and opened fire on those inside. The group reportedly consisted of 13 men and one pregnant woman.

Ten people were declared dead at the scene, while an 11th victim later died in hospital.

During his visit, Premier Ntuli expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and met with law enforcement officials, relatives and community representatives to assess the situation.

Community members also raised concerns about alleged drug activity and the circulation of illegal firearms in the area, which they believe are contributing to violent crime.

Police said preliminary information indicates that some of the victims were allegedly known to Crime Intelligence in connection with suspected criminal activities. Investigators are examining whether the shooting may have been linked to a conflict involving rival criminal groups.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a manhunt for the suspects and deployed additional resources to assist with the investigation.

Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has activated a 72-hour tracking operation as police work to locate and arrest those responsible.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, and no arrests had been confirmed at the time of publication.