KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety & Liaison Mr Mxolisi Kaunda visited the scene after last night’s shooting on the R74, between Colenso and Weenen.
The massacre left 11 people dead after a Toyota Quantum was ambushed by gunmen using high-powered rifles. Over 200 shots were fired into the taxi. The victims are associated with the Ivory Park and the Kempton Park taxi associations in Gauteng.
The shooting left four others injured. Three are currently in a stable condition, while one is critical and in ICU.
Two men managed to escape the hail of gunfire.
The understanding is that the Toyota had 17 occupants, all linked to the taxi industry. It is believed that they were returning from the funeral of a Gauteng taxi operator near Greytown.
Officials and services finished at the scene this morning (July 22) at 4am, after working through the night.
Initial story: Breaking news: 11 dead in mass shooting along the R74, KZN
Update: Video and photos of R74 shooting that took place between Colenso and Weenen
Update: Victims of R74 ambush shooting identified
MEC Kaunda has ordered a full investigation.
Kaunda, who visited the scene in Colenso today, has strongly condemned the incident and says that police will work around the clock to ensure that the suspects are apprehended and face the full might of the law.
The MEC visited Colenso police station this morning for a closed briefing before venturing onto the scene of the shooting, where a prayer was said.
The MEC also made a trip to the pound where the Toyota Quantum is being held, getting up close and personal with what actually happened last night.
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