By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) have confirmed that four suspects wanted in connection with the Lusikisiki massacre have been arrested in Port Shepstone.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said, that three suspects were arrested in Port Shepstone during an intelligence-led operation by the Port Shepstone K9 Unit and Public Order Policing officers early Wednesday morning.
He added that police are still searching for the firearm used in the murders.
The suspects were identified on Tuesday as Songezo ‘Mashiya’ Vuma (20), Bonga ‘Rico’ Hintsa (31), Aphiwe ‘AP’ Ndende (25) and Lwando Anthony ‘Abi’ Shakes (31).
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said preliminary investigations suggest the suspects could assist in solving the Lusikisiki mass murder case and that the investigation is “at an advanced stage.”
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola thanked South Africans for sharing the suspects’ pictures and providing information that helped reveal their whereabouts.
Masemola said, “To those who shared the pictures of these suspects on social media, to all the journalists and media houses that played their watchdog role, we are indebted to you.”
“This is what the SAPS can achieve when the whole country rallies behind our men and women in blue. We thank you South Africa for assisting us to stamp the authority of the state.”
Masemola also commended the investigating team for their efforts in solving this case.
The mass shooting occurred on 28 September at two neighbouring homesteads in Ngobozana village, near Lusikisiki, with most of the victims being women. The motive for the killings remains unclear.