KwaMakhutha: 11 killed in a house, three men sought

Eleven people were killed and three others injured during the night of Tuesday, September 22, to Wednesday, September 23, 2026, in KwaMakhutha, south of Durban, in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal. Police have launched a manhunt for three men suspected of opening fire in a house.

According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, fourteen people, including thirteen men and one pregnant woman, were inside the residence located in the Ziko area. Three men reportedly entered shortly before 11:00 pm and opened fire on the group.

Ten victims, including the pregnant woman, died at the scene. Four individuals were transported to the hospital, but one of them succumbed to their injuries. The police report indicates a total of eleven dead and three injured.

KwaMakhutha police and the eThekwini district search team have been deployed to the scene. The motive for the attack has not yet been established. Authorities indicate that a confrontation between rival groups cannot be ruled out, although they do not present this line of inquiry as a conclusion.

Initial investigations also reveal that some victims were on the radar of criminal intelligence for unspecified alleged activities. Authorities state they are withholding this information to avoid compromising the investigation.

The KwaZulu-Natal provincial premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, is scheduled to visit KwaMakhutha on Wednesday. His office announced plans for discussions with law enforcement, community representatives, and affected families, while the three alleged assailants remain at large.