Police in the Eastern Cape have launched a manhunt for unknown suspects, who allegedly opened fire and fatally wounded five family relatives in the early morning of Monday, 6 March 2023 at about 01:00, at the homestead in Luphondo Locality, Thahla Administrative Area in Lusikisiki.
Police have registered five cases of murder for investigation.
Police were alerted to the shooting incident by members of the community, who allegedly heard gunshots. On arrival at the scene, they found five family relatives aged between 9 and 78 years old, who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. They were declared dead at the crime scene.
Two children aged 1 and 8, escaped unhurt during the incident.
The motive for the attack is unknown at this stage.
The victims are from one family, and their identities are withheld until the formal identification process is concluded.
The 72 hour activation plan has been ordered by the Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Zithulele Dladla for the immediate mobilization of all resources to ensure a speedy arrest of the suspects responsible for the mass shooting and killing of the family.
Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspect (s) is requested to please make contact with the nearest police station.
The information may also be shared via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or by using the My SAPS App.
All information will be treated confidential, and callers may remain anonymous.
