KwaZulu-Natal police have confirmed the arrests of all six suspects involved in the mass shooting that left four people dead and one injured in Estcourt on Sunday afternoon, 27 October 2024.
Story Summary:
- All six suspects in the Estcourt mass shooting have now been apprehended.
- Police confirm the attack occurred during a traditional ceremony, killing four and injuring one.
- Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli will visit affected families in Estcourt.
Estcourt mass shooting latest news
The incident took place at a homestead in the Nyezane area where a traditional celebration was underway.
According to police, six masked suspects, armed with rifles and handguns, entered the homestead during the ceremony and opened fire on attendees.
The brutal attack killed three people on the spot, with a fourth victim succumbing to injuries later at a medical facility.
The victims, aged between 45 and 61, were reportedly members of a Community Anti-Stock Theft Group, with investigators suggesting that stock theft might be the motive behind the attack.
Lieutenant Colonel Nqobile Gwala confirmed the arrests, stating that swift, intelligence-driven investigations led officers to a 28-year-old suspect, who was initially apprehended while receiving treatment for a gunshot wound and broken arm at a local hospital.
The arrest of the remaining five suspects followed shortly thereafter, concluding the immediate search for those responsible.
Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli is scheduled to visit the families of the deceased and the surviving victim on Tuesday to offer condolences and support.
