SOUTH African police have arrested three suspects in connection with the massacre of 18 family members in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, following an intensive manhunt. The arrests were announced by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu during a memorial service for the victims on Sunday.
A fourth suspect is expected to be apprehended soon, according to Minister Mchunu, who provided an update on the investigation during the memorial service. The massacre, which occurred when gunmen opened fire on two homes, left 15 women and three men dead, several of whom were shot in the head. The victims ranged in age from 14 to 64.
The killings took place during a traditional family gathering, and authorities are still trying to determine the motive behind the brutal attack. The three arrested suspects are due to appear in court on Monday to face charges related to the massacre.
The attack has sent shockwaves across South Africa, reigniting demands for improved police protection and a stronger response to violent crime. South Africa, which has one of the highest murder rates in the world, recorded over 27,000 murders in 2022, equivalent to 45 per 100,000 people—significantly higher than the rate of six per 100,000 in the United States.
The massacre has also renewed calls to address gender-based violence, with Deputy Minister in the Presidency Mmapaseka Letsike urging civil society, traditional leaders, and the government to work together to ‘raise the bar’ in tackling the issue.
The tragedy in Lusikisiki highlights the ongoing crisis of violence in South Africa, where families and communities continue to live under the threat of both gender-based violence and high murder rates.
