- Authorities captured three wanted suspects a day after initiating a manhunt for the Lusikisiki massacre.
- Community cooperation led to the discovery of the suspects hiding in a Port Shepstone informal settlement on October 16, 2024.
- Just the day before, police had publicly released the names and photos of four suspects, appealing for public assistance.
PORT SHEPSTONE — In a significant stride towards justice, police have made headway by arresting three more individuals suspected of involvement in the chilling murders of 18 people in Lusikisiki. This operation marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation.
The arrests, which unfolded on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, in Port Shepstone, were set in motion after police made the names and photos of four suspects public the previous day. It was a bold move that relied heavily on community involvement.
Three Suspects Arrested for Lusikisiki Shootings
In the early hours of the morning, KwaZulu-Natal police executed an intelligence-driven operation that resulted in the arrest of three out of the four targeted men. This was no small feat, and the success can be attributed to the vigilance of a community member who tipped off authorities about the suspects' hideout in the Mkholombe informal settlement.
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Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the police spokesperson, highlighted the seamless nature of the operation. Unlike many high-stakes arrests involving dangerous criminals in the region, this one went off without a hitch—no dramatic shootouts, just calm and collected professionalism. According to Netshiunda, "The police swiftly moved in and arrested the three suspects, aged 22, 24, and 31, without any incidents to report."
"Our operation is still ongoing as we continue the search for the firearm that was allegedly used in the commission of this heinous crime," Netshiunda added.
Simultaneously, Siphosoxolo Myekethe, a 45-year-old parolee, made a second court appearance on October 15, 2024, at the Lusikisiki Magistrate's Court, where he opted not to pursue bail. Myekethe, who was arrested on October 7 in the Mthinde Location near Lusikisiki, remains a key figure in the investigation.
National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola expressed her gratitude to the public for their invaluable support. "We are truly grateful for the overwhelming response from the community. Within less than 24 hours of issuing the alert, we received vital information that led to the capture of these suspects. This is a testament to the power of community cooperation," she stated.
Tragic Events in Bergville: Five Relatives Stabbed, Including Two Children
Another Horrific Incident Rocks Small Village
In a separate but equally devastating incident, a violent knife attack claimed the lives of five individuals, including two children, leaving two others critically injured. This tragic event unfolded in Bethany village, Bergville, where a 33-year-old man was swiftly arrested early Sunday morning, October 13, 2024, and charged in connection with the attack.
Details are still emerging, but the community remains in shock over the senseless violence that has rocked their peaceful village. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing those responsible to justice. The nation watches with bated breath, hoping for answers and closure in the face of such overwhelming tragedy.
