A manhunt is currently in progress following a horrific mass shooting that left 17 residents dead in a South African village, as reported by police on Saturday. The tragic incident took place in Ngobozana village, located in Lusikisiki, within the Eastern Cape province. Authorities stated that two homes were specifically targeted during the shootings, which occurred early on Saturday morning. Fortunately, six individuals, including a two-month-old baby, managed to survive the attack.

According to the police statement, the first homestead was the site of four fatalities, with no survivors among the victims. The second homestead, where 19 people were present in two separate houses within the same yard, witnessed a more devastating toll—13 individuals were shot and killed there. Overall, the victims comprised 15 women and two men.

In response to the tragic event, a team of detectives and forensic specialists has been dispatched to gather evidence and work towards apprehending the assailants. The police emphasized the urgency of the manhunt for these brutal criminals.

Mass shootings are unfortunately common in South Africa, a nation grappling with a soaring murder rate that has reached a two-decade high. Recent statistics reveal that more than 6,000 murders occurred nationwide between April and June of this year alone. The police ministry highlighted that over the past month, authorities have arrested more than 53,000 suspects wanted for violent crimes, including murder, and have seized over 400 illegal firearms.