Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu, along with Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale and National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) General Fannie Masemola, will hold a press conference to provide further information regarding recent violent incidents.
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Masemola confirmed that 17 individuals died from gunshot wounds. He noted that the motive behind the killings remains unclear and that details are still being gathered, including the number of potential survivors. “All the deceased were shot. We will give updates as we gather more information and secure the area,” Masemola stated.
He explained that the two shooting locations are interconnected, located within the same homestead comprising two adjacent houses that belong to one family. “We received the call early Saturday morning. The police who arrive at the scene initially can only secure the area. Our forensic team is being brought in from Pretoria to conduct a thorough investigation,” Masemola added.
One of the survivors, an elderly man, is reported to be in critical condition, while another survivor is described as a small child.
The SAPS announced that Mchunu will also discuss the killings during the media briefing, including details of a manhunt for those responsible for these brutal acts. “The minister will address the media regarding the tragic deaths of 17 individuals in Lusikisiki and the efforts underway to capture those behind these heinous crimes,” said SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
Among the deceased, 13 people were killed in one house—12 women and one man—while four others were killed in a separate homestead. In total, 15 women and two men lost their lives. Mchunu emphasized that “maximum resources” have been deployed to track down the perpetrators.
ALSO READ ; PSL Matchday 28: Simba Bhora Visits Defending Champs Ngezi Platinum Stars
