Manhunt Underway After 17 People Killed in South Africa Mass Shooting
Seventeen people, including 15 women, were killed in two mass shootings that took place in close proximity to each other in a rural town in South Africa, police said Saturday. The victims were targeted in two residences in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape province, where 12 women and one man were killed in one house, and three women and another man were killed in the other house.
A manhunt is underway to apprehend the suspects, with national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stating that the shootings occurred at two houses in the same neighborhood, a collection of rural homesteads on the outskirts of the town.
The victims were believed to be relatives and neighbors who had gathered to prepare for a traditional mourning ceremony when the attack occurred on Friday night. Local mayor Nonkosi Pepping expressed her shock, saying, “The gunmen came and shot randomly, killing everyone. Women and children were also victims in this horrific incident. This has left the community in fear”.
An 18th victim remains in critical condition in a hospital. The South African Police Service has launched an extensive search to bring those responsible for these brutal killings to justice, committed to ensuring the safety and security of their communities.
