Police in KwaZulu-Natal have launched a manhunt for three men accused of opening fire on a group of people at a house in the Ziko area of KwaMakhutha, south of Durban, killing 11 people and injuring three others.
The shooting occurred on Tuesday night, September 22, 2026, according to the South African Police Service.
Police said 13 men and one woman, who was believed to be pregnant, were gathered inside the house when three men arrived and opened fire.
Ten victims, including the woman, died at the scene. Four others were taken to hospital, where one later died from gunshot wounds.
The circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation.
Police said preliminary investigations had established that some of the victims were on the radar of Crime Intelligence in connection with alleged illegal activities. Police did not disclose further details, saying this could compromise ongoing investigations.
The motive for the shooting has not been established. However, police said a feud between rival groupings could not be ruled out.
The Acting National Commissioner of the SAPS, Lt Gen Puleng Dimpane, has directed the KwaZulu Natal Provincial Commissioner to activate a 72 hour tracking operation aimed at identifying and apprehending those responsible.
Dimpane expressed concern over the loss of life and called on police to use all available resources to pursue the suspects.
“There is no place in our communities for the senseless taking of human lives,” Dimpane said. “Police must act decisively, mobilise all available resources and pursue those responsible until they are brought before the courts.”
She said investigators were following a lead that could assist in making progress in the case.
The police have appealed to members of the public who may have information about the shooting or the suspects to come forward.
Information can be provided to the investigating team or anonymously through Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Members of the public can also submit anonymous information through the MySAPS application.
The investigation remains ongoing.