A devastating mass shooting in an Eastern Cape village has left 17 people dead.
The victims, believed to be relatives and neighbours, were gunned down in Nyathi village, Ngobozana, Lusikisiki, on Friday night.
Thirteen victims — 12 women and one man — were found in one house, and four others in another homestead.
The 18th victim is in a critical condition in hospital.
In total, 15 women and two men lost their lives in the shooting.
They were preparing for a traditional ritual, umembulo or ukukhululwa kwezila, scheduled for Saturday at MaNtlaneni village, also in Lusikisiki, to mark the end of mourning of a mother and daughter murdered a year ago.
The group had gathered to pack goods and presents for the event when the shooting occurred.
Lusikisiki gender-based violence activist Khwalo Matandabuzo confirmed the incident.
“This is a disaster. This is shocking,” Matandabuzo said.
“This has left us devastated and feeling in shock.
“I have never heard of so many people shot and killed in one go, 17 people shot dead just like that in one incident! This is so sad!”
LULAMILE FENI
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