Three arrested in South Africa over massacre of 18 relatives

South African police have apprehended three suspects linked to the horrific massacre of 18 family members in the small town of Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, last week. The arrests followed a rigorous manhunt, as confirmed by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu during a memorial service for the victims on Sunday. He revealed that a fourth suspect is expected to be captured shortly.

The shocking massacre, which has sent ripples of horror across the nation, occurred when gunmen attacked two homes, resulting in the deaths of 15 women and 3 men, many of whom suffered gunshot wounds to the head. The victims, aged between 14 and 64, were gathered for a traditional ceremony when the violence erupted, according to reports from Dispatch Live.

Mchunu stated that police are diligently working to uncover the details surrounding this brutal attack. The three arrested suspects are scheduled to appear in court on Monday to face charges related to the massacre.

This tragedy has reignited urgent calls for enhanced police protection in South Africa, a nation grappling with one of the highest murder rates globally. In 2022, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime reported over 27,000 murders in South Africa, translating to a staggering 45 homicides per 100,000 people—far surpassing the U.S. rate of six per 100,000.

Furthermore, the incident has sparked renewed discussions on addressing gender-based violence, with South Africa noted for having one of the highest femicide rates worldwide. During the memorial, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Mmapaseka Letsike urged civil society, traditional leaders, and the government to “raise the bar” in the ongoing battle against gender-based violence.