Four brothers were fatally shot down just hours before their sister’s traditional wedding in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) recently.
Bhekisisa, Msawenkosi, Sanziso, and Veli Gcabashe were preparing for their sister Phumzile’s wedding festivities at KwaNgoza Village when the unthinkable happened.
Four Brothers Shot Dead While Celebrating Their Sister’s Wedding In KZN
Witnesses told Zimoja that the brothers gathered in a hut, singing and jubilantly enjoying the traditional brew, umqombothi. Five unknown assailants barged in and opened fire. They shot the four brothers dead and four other wedding guests outside, who are now nursing injuries.
Phumzile’s husband, Msizi Shangase, described the shock and horror that ensued as gunshots shattered the celebratory atmosphere.
“The wedding had to continue as per custom even after the murders. I really don’t understand why something like that had to happen. We were forced to continue with the traditional wedding because, according to the Zulu culture, it is taboo to postpone a wedding. We are still trying to make sense of what really happened and why it happened.”
No one knows the motive behind the heartless killings. Msizi reflected on how they are now on edge and fearing for their safety.
“We are not sure about our safety now as we don’t know whether the killers who did this will come back to finish off what they started.”
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Authorities Confirm The Tragic Incident
Mayor Sam Mfeka of Ndwedwe Local Municipality expressed concern over the escalating violence in the area. He cited recent shootings that have left residents frightened.
“We are pleading for calmness and for locals to allow the police to do their job so that the criminals can be brought to book,” Mayor Mfeka urged.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda, spokesperson for the KwaZulu-Natal South African Police Service (SAPS), confirmed:
“Police in Ndwedwe have launched a massive manhunt for two suspects who shot and killed four men from the same family in the Mzunga area in the early hours of Sunday, 21 April. Information at the police’s disposal at this stage suggests that a number of men were gathered when the suspects came in and opened fire.
“Three men were certified dead on the scene. Five more men were rushed to a nearby clinic for medical attention. However, one more victim was declared dead on arrival. The motive of the killing has not yet been established,” he said.