The Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant General Puleng Puleng Dimpane, has directed the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner to activate the 72-hour tracking operation to pursue and apprehend the suspects responsible for the fatal shooting of 11 people at KwaMakhutha, south of Durban.
This as Dimpane on Wednesday expressed her deep concern over the senseless loss of life and conveyed her condolences to the families of the deceased, while wishing those injured a speedy recovery.
“There is no place in our communities for the senseless taking of human lives. Police must act decisively, mobilise all available resources and pursue those responsible until they are brought before the courts. We are confident that investigators are following a promising lead which could assist in securing a breakthrough in this case,” Dimpane said.
Three other people were injured when armed suspects reportedly entered a house in the Ziko area on Tuesday night, 22 September 2026, and opened fire on the people who were gathered inside.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the motive for the shooting has not yet been established, and investigations are continuing.
“SAPS is appealing to community members to provide investigators with reliable and credible information that can assist in identifying, tracing and apprehending the suspects. Information can be provided to the investigating team or anonymously through Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or leave an anonymous tip-off on the MySAPS APP.
“SAPS will not relent in its efforts to ensure that those responsible for this attack are brought to justice,” it said.
In an earlier statement, police said they had launched a manhunt for suspects who allegedly shot and killed eleven people and injured three others during a shooting incident that happened in the Ziko area in KwaMakhutha on Tuesday night, 22 September 2026.
“Information available at this stage suggests that thirteen 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. Ten victims, including the woman, died at the scene and four were taken to hospital; one of them succumbed to gunshot injuries.
“Preliminary investigations have revealed that some of the victims were on Crime Intelligence' radar in connection with illegal activities which police cannot divulge at the moment to protect investigations which have been launched,” the police said in an earlier statement.
The police further added: “A feud between rival groupings cannot be ruled out.” -SAnews.gov.za
