Charges of murder and house robbery are being investigated by Margate SAPS after a 44-year-old woman was shot and killed by an unknown man in Uvongo yesterday.

Shalima Ramsanker of Clare Estate, Durban was at a holiday home in Collins Road, Uvongo with her family.

The family were seated on the veranda and Ramsanker were inside the house when they heard the alarm going off.

Soon after they heard a gunshot on the floor above them. They all ran inside the house for cover.

It is believed that Ramsanker ran and tried to close the kitchen door, but she encountered the intruder who fired at her. She was shot once in the chest.

Police spokesman Captain Nqobile Gwala says the man fled the scene with two bags containing personal belongings and bank cards. Police are still searching for him.

No other people were injured.