KwaMakhutha, south of Durban — Eleven people were killed and three others injured when unknown gunmen entered a home in the Ziko area of KwaMakhutha and opened fire on a group gathered there on the night of 22 September 2026, provincial police said on Wednesday.
What happened
According to a statement from the South African Police Service (SAPS) in KwaZulu‑Natal, three men arrived at the house while about 13 men and one woman — the woman believed to have been pregnant — were reportedly having a party. The attackers entered the yard and began shooting, killing 10 people at the scene and wounding four others. One of those taken to hospital later died, bringing the death toll to 11.
Police said the motive for the attack has not yet been established and that detectives are continuing enquiries. Preliminary investigation notes released by SAPS indicate some victims were already on Crime Intelligence Division records regarding alleged illegal activity, but officials did not disclose further details.
Police response and operation
The Acting National Commissioner of SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has ordered an immediate 72‑hour tracking operation in the province to pursue and seize the suspects. In the province, Lieutenant General Dimpane instructed investigators and operational commanders to mobilise resources to locate those responsible.
“Police must act decisively, mobilise all available resources and pursue those responsible until they are brought before the courts,”
KwaZulu‑Natal Premier Thami Ntuli expressed condolences to the victims' families and urged community members to provide any information that could assist law enforcement. In a statement, the Premier's Office said residents have reported that the discharge of firearms at night is an ongoing problem in the Ziko area and that substance abuse is a major concern in the community.
Casualty and incident summary
| Date | Location | Dead | Injured |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22 September 2026 | Ziko area, KwaMakhutha | 11 | 3 |
- Attackers reportedly arrived as three men and opened fire at a house where people were gathered.
- Ten people died at the scene; one more died in hospital.
- Investigations are ongoing and SAPS has not confirmed a motive.
Community impact and next steps
The shooting has shaken residents of KwaMakhutha, a township south of Durban, where concerns about firearm discharges and substance abuse were highlighted by the Premier. Police have appealed for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward as the 72‑hour operation seeks rapid leads. No arrests were announced in the initial statements.
Provincial commanders have been directed to coordinate with national structures to ensure forensic and intelligence resources are available. The activation of the 72‑hour tracking operation is standard SAPS protocol in serious incidents where rapid, concentrated efforts are needed to identify and apprehend suspects.
As investigations continue, authorities have not released the names of the deceased or further details about the wounded pending family notification and forensic processes. SAPS emphasised that enquiries remain under way and that the motive is yet to be established.
This incident follows broader concerns in parts of the province about illegal firearms and community safety. Police and provincial leaders have reiterated calls for community cooperation with law enforcement to address violent crime.
Anyone with information about the KwaMakhutha shooting is urged to contact the SAPS tip‑off lines or their local police station. Calls can be made anonymously through the SAPS Crime Stop number or via local provincial contacts provided by SAPS.
The department responsible for the 72‑hour operation will provide updates as practical leads develop and suspects are detained.
