By Anita Dangazele
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has sent a team of expert investigators to Lusikisiki after 17 family members and neighbors were shot dead on Friday night. Three other people were injured in the attack.
At a community meeting in KwaNobuhle township, Mchunu said the shooting happened in Nyathi village, Ngobozana, Lusikisiki.
The victims were getting ready for a traditional ceremony called “ukukhululwa kwezila,” which marks the end of mourning for a mother and daughter who were killed last year.
Mchunu learned about the shooting on Saturday, and police national commissioner Fannie Masemola quickly sent in specialists to help local police.
“Now, commissioner Masemola has acted, and quite quickly, sending teams of forensic investigators and other investigators on a specialised basis. We started doing the work today [Saturday], and we’re hoping that we will find some clues in terms of who did these heinous crimes,” Mchunu said.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed the details: “In one house, 13 people were killed, including 12 women and one man. In another home, four people were also killed. The 18th victim is in critical condition in the hospital. In total, 15 women and two men were killed,” Mathe explained.
Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane shared his condolences with the victims’ families.
“The loss of life on this scale is a devastating blow to our province, and we mourn the passing of these innocent lives. We stand in solidarity with the families and communities affected. The brutal and senseless killing of innocent people is a heinous act that has no place in our society,” Mabuyane said.
He also mentioned that the Lusikisiki shooting reminds everyone of the need for unity against violence.
“The safety and security of our communities remain paramount, and we will do everything in our power to prevent such incidents from happening again.”
Pictured above: Emergency vehicles outside the homestead where 12 people were shot and killed in Nyathi village, Ngobozana in Lusikisiki.
Source: Supplied
