South African police have arrested three people in connection with the gruesome murder of 18 relatives that took place in a remote town last week following a manhunt.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu revealed the arrests during a memorial service for the 18 deceased on Sunday in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, where the killings took place.
He stated that the arrest of a fourth suspect would be reported shortly.
Gunmen opened fire on two homes in South Africa, killing fifteen women and three men, causing shockwaves throughout the country. Several were shot in the head.
The victims ranged in age from 14 to 64 years old, according to local daily Dispatch Live.
Mchunu stated that the police are still trying to “piece together” the motive for the killings.
The attack occurred as the family gathered for a traditional ceremony.
The three accused will appear in court on Monday to face charges.
This massacre has stunned South Africa, prompting requests for increased police protection.
According to the most recent United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime data, South Africa has one of the world’s highest murder rates.
In 2022, there were more than 27,000 murders, or 45 individuals per 100,000 in a population of nearly 60 million. In comparison, the U.S. rate is six per 100,000.
It has also prompted individuals to demand an end to gender-based violence. South Africa has a high femicide rate.
Mmapaseka Letsike, Deputy Minister of the Presidency, attended the memorial and stated that civil society, traditional leaders, and the government must “raise the bar” to help eradicate gender-based violence.
