Eleven Killed in Durban Mass Shooting, Police Probe Possible Gang Feud

At least 11 people have been killed in a mass shooting in a residential building near the South African city of Durban.

Gunmen stormed a house in the KwaMakhutha township late on Tuesday and opened fire on 14 people, killing 10 at the scene. Four others were hospitalised, one of whom later died.

Police said some of the victims were on a watch list for alleged illegal activities, details of which are being withheld to protect the investigations. The motive has not yet been confirmed, though authorities cannot rule out a feud between rival groupings.

Officials described the incident as a party held inside the house when three armed men burst in and fired indiscriminately. A woman, who is believed to be pregnant, was among those who died.

A local TV reporter from the eNCA channel confirmed that the gunmen set fire to a vehicle belonging to one of the victims before fleeing. Footage showed the burnt‑out car.

The police have launched a manhunt for the suspects, who reportedly carried pistols and rifles.

South Africa’s murder rate remains one of the world’s highest, with police data indicating a daily average of more than 60 deaths. Recent discoveries of at least nine murdered women have heightened fears, while last year’s tavern shooting in Johannesburg underscored the rising trend of mass shootings. Organized crime, including turf wars and illegal mining, is a major driver of violence in communities.

President Cyril Ramaphosa urged that organised crime is a “most immediate threat” to democracy and has called for deploying the army to support police. Despite long‑standing high crime rates, mass shootings have recently intensified public fear, prompting calls for stronger law enforcement and dismantling of crime syndicates.