Eleven people have been killed and three others wounded following a mass shooting in the Ziko area of KwaMakhutha, south of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
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The shooting happened on Tuesday night, 22 September 2026, when gunmen reportedly stormed a house where a group of people had gathered.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), 14 people — 13 men and one woman who is believed to have been pregnant — were inside the house when three men arrived and opened fire.
Ten of the victims, including the woman, died at the scene. Four others were taken to hospital, where one later succumbed to their injuries. Three people remain injured.
Police launch manhunt
KwaZulu-Natal police have launched a manhunt for the suspects responsible for the attack.
According to Eyewitness News, police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said investigators were working at the scene and that the motive for the shooting had not yet been confirmed.
However, preliminary investigations have indicated that some of the victims were known to Crime Intelligence in connection with alleged illegal activities. Police have not disclosed further details, saying this could compromise the investigation.
Police are investigating a possible feud between rival groups as a potential motive for the attack. This remains an investigative lead rather than a confirmed reason.
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Community left shocked
The shooting has left residents and the victims’ families traumatised, with the scale of the attack prompting a significant police response.
KwaMakhutha SAPS and the eThekwini District Tracing Team were deployed to the area as investigators began gathering evidence and searching for the perpetrators.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli is expected to visit the area and engage with law enforcement officials, community representatives and affected families.
The identities of the victims are being established as families begin the process of identifying their loved ones.
The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been confirmed in the latest reports. Police are appealing for information that could help identify and locate those responsible.
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