South Africa police launch manhunt after fatal shooting, as government intensifies fight against gun violence

Africa, Crime Diary

AFRICA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — The South African Police have commenced a manhunt for a suspect shooter who fatally shot a man in the early hours of Friday. Thohoyandou launched a manhunt for unknown suspect/s after a 35-year-old man was shot and killed at Makonde (Shadani) in the early hours of Saturday, 4 April, 2026.

According to a statement by the South Africa Police Service, officers received a complaint from Shadani village, and upon arrival at the scene, they found the lifeless body of a male lying on the street with multiple gunshot wounds. Preliminary investigations revealed that several empty cartridges were found at the scene, indicating that the victim was shot multiple times.

However, the SA Police Service noted that the motive for the attack is unknown at this stage, and investigations are ongoing.

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South Africa continues to grapple with rising incidents of gun violence, prompting government-led initiatives aimed at curbing the proliferation of illegal firearms and strengthening community policing. Authorities have emphasized that tackling gun-related crime remains a national priority, with coordinated efforts underway to improve safety and restore public confidence in law enforcement.