The police in the Eastern Cape have launched a manhunt after a mourning family was nearly wiped out when gunmen stormed their home, killing three people and leaving others badly injured.

The incident happened at the Mangweni location in Dalasile under the Ngcobo area. It follows a long list of incidents of mass shootings in the area, with the last known incident dating back to 2018.

The acting SAPS Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, said, according to information obtained by police officers, the incident happened last night, 15 May 2025.

It is alleged that at about 19:30, five family members mourning the death of a relative were shot by two armed men, who stormed their home and opened fire. Three victims aged between 30 and 50 were shot and killed on the spot, while the other two sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to a local hospital.

Kupiso said that at this stage, the motive for the attack is yet to be established, and the police are following all leads as the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit in Ngcobo is investigating a case of murder and attempted murder.

He said anyone who can assist with any information relating to the suspects is requested to contact the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Sandiso Madinga on 071 475 2105 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or the nearest police station.

Kupiso added that the police have since mobilised their full resources to trace and speedily locate at least two suspects, who are believed to be involved in this heinous and terrible incident.

“We have assembled a team of seasoned detectives, who are already on the ground hunting for the suspects. Police are urging the community to assist us to piece together the events that led to this tragic incident,” he added.