Four people, all members of a local anti-stock theft community group, were murdered in Nyezane, Loskop, near Estcourt in KZN yesterday afternoon (October 27).

Police say they have arrested one suspect after the mass shooting.

It is alleged that six suspects wearing masks and carrying rifles and handguns entered a homestead where a traditional ceremony was taking place. They opened fire on the people who were enjoying the festivities.

Three people died at the scene and two others were rushed to a medical facility. One of the people injured later died as a result of the severe injuries sustained. The deceased were 45, 57, 60 and 61 years old.

It is alleged that one of the attackers was also shot and wounded. He was rushed to hospital by his accomplices and was later located by police at Emmaus Hospital in Bergville.

However, KZN police say they still need to investigate how this person was shot.

“Swift intelligence-driven investigations by Amangwe detectives led them to a hospital, where a 28-year-old suspect was arrested. The suspect had sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and a broken arm and was taken to hospital by his accomplices.

“It is yet to be established if he was hit by ‘friendly fire’ or if someone else retaliated at the crime scene,” commented police.

Investigations are underway to establish if the incident is related to stock theft in the area.