Police probe family feuds and soured business deals as possible motive for Highflats massacre

Police have reason to believe that the gruesome murders of seven family members in KZN were premeditated. Picture: Supplied

Police have reason to believe that the gruesome murders of seven family members in KZN were premeditated. Picture: Supplied

Published Sep 12, 2024

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Police in KwaZulu-Natal believe Wednesday’s mass shooting of seven people from the Khambule family could be linked to ongoing family squabbles and tender-related business deals. IOL earlier reported that three children, under the age of 13, were among the deceased.

Speaking to the media at the scene in Highflats, just outside Pietermaritzburg, provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi said the family was seated in the lounge when the gunmen entered the homestead.

“According to information that we received, there were a total of 25 bullets used. There were 18 spent cartridges and seven bullet heads found at the crime scene. As police, we are convinced that this was an execution. It was planned,” Mkhwanazi said.

Mkhwanazi has deployed a provincial team to spearhead the investigations and a search for suspects.

Police have also clarified the ages of the deceased; three women aged 35, 38 and 55 years old, and a 48-year-old man as well as three children aged 5, 11 and 12.

The homestead where the Khambule family were shot dead. Picture: Supplied

“We hope that we are able to find the perpetrators involved. The motive of the killing is yet to be established, although there is a suspicion of family feud and business-related tensions.

“A search for the suspects is already under way. I am confident that police will crack the case and bring perpetrators to justice,” Mkhwanazi said.

Police confirmed that a relative from the family is in custody on a separate charge of firearm possession and he is being questioned.

Investigations continue.

KZN Premier Thami Ntuli visited the area where he urged collaboration between the police and community to ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice.

KZN SAPS Commissioner, Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi at the homestead where seven people were killed in the province. Picture: Supplied

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, accompanied by Harry Gwala District Municipality Mayor Cllr Zamo Nxumalo and the police top brass led by Provincial Commissioner Lt-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, visited the Khambule family in Hlokozi – near Highflats - where seven members, including three young children – were massacred. Picture: Supplied

He has further instructed the Department of Social Development to urgently provide psycho-social support to the affected family.

Ntuli also called on Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi to ensure the safety and protection of the remaining relatives.

IOL News