Lusikisiki Tragedy: One in Custody After 18 Killed in Devastating Shooting, More Arrests Likely

Image Source: dispatchlive

Fresh Update Unveiled at Tuesday’s Media Briefing by Top SAPS Officials. National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Fannie Masemola, revealed that an elite task force of national and provincial experts, forensic specialists, and violent crime investigators is leading the probe into the deadly shooting.

“We have a clear target in mind. One person of interest is currently being questioned—though not yet arrested. We are on the right track and will provide updates as the investigation progresses,” said Commissioner.

Masemola noted that detectives will decide if an arrest is warranted after questioning. Meanwhile, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu emphasised that capturing the suspects is a top priority, adding that with the progress made so far, arrests are expected soon. Mchunu expressed strong confidence that the suspects will soon be brought to justice.

Unidentified gunmen unleashed a deadly attack, claiming the lives of 18 family members in a brutal homestead shooting.

The tragic shooting claimed the lives of 18 people, including 15 women and three men. Among the victims were two teenagers, aged 14 and 19.

The women who lost their lives were: Nonkanyiso Dukuza, 19; Ruth King, 21; Mandisa Dlokweni, 59; Samantha Sinqina, 26; Lungiswa Gawulekana, 51; Thandeka Mhlaluvele, 46; Mary Sinqina, 63; Nombuliso Dukuza, 32; Mathembisile Mayekiso/Sinqina, 64; Nobelungu France, 59; Themi Vimba, 41; Nomazwi Ndleleni, 59; Nancy Sinqina, 59; Dimpho Sinqina, 30; and Thali King Sinqina, 26.

The male victims were: Thobile Sinqina, 37; Smomoza Sinqina, 14; and Sigobodo Gxobela, 59.

Mchunu revealed that six individuals survived the attack at the homestead—four women, a man, and a two-month-old baby. While the child was unharmed, authorities took them to the hospital as a precaution, according to a police spokesperson. Unfortunately, there were no survivors at the second homestead.

Regional Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Xolile Nqatha, expressed hope for a “swift” recovery of the critically injured man, stating, “His recovery could provide crucial insights into the shooting.”