By Mpho Moloi
Police in KwaZulu-Natal have initiated an intense manhunt for a man accused of fatally stabbing five of his family members and injuring two others in a gruesome attack on Saturday evening. The incident, which unfolded in the Bethany area in Bergville, has sent shockwaves through the local community, leaving residents in deep shock and fear. The attack highlights the persistent issues of domestic violence in South Africa, where recent incidents have prompted calls for increased awareness and preventive measures.
The Tragic Events Unfold
According to police reports, the tragic incident began when the suspect and his uncle returned home from visiting neighbors. Upon their arrival, they found several family members gathered in the lounge. Police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, detailed the sequence of events, stating, “Reports indicate that the suspect took a knife and attacked his mother, who managed to escape outside. He then turned on his uncle, stabbing him fatally as he attempted to flee.” The carnage continued as the suspect attacked two young girls, aged two and six, who tragically succumbed to their injuries.
The suspect did not stop there, as he allegedly continued his rampage, stabbing a woman with a disability and an elderly woman who had been visiting the home. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. In total, five individuals lost their lives, while two others, including the suspect’s mother, sustained multiple stab wounds and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Suspect’s History of Domestic Violence
Preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspect had a history of domestic violence incidents, with several cases reported against him. However, the police indicated that these cases were voluntarily withdrawn by the family members, a common issue in South Africa, where victims often face societal pressures or economic dependence that prevent them from pursuing charges. The police statement noted, “The suspect had several domestic violence-related cases opened against him, but all of them were later voluntarily withdrawn.”
Community in Shock and Fear
The Bethany community is struggling to come to terms with the horrific events. Local resident Thandiwe Mbatha expressed the community’s distress, stating, “We never imagined something like this could happen here. It’s terrifying to think someone could do this to their own family.” Community leaders are urging residents to cooperate with law enforcement and report any information that could lead to the suspect’s capture.
Local authorities have called on anyone with information regarding the suspect’s whereabouts to contact their nearest police station or use the Crime Stop number, 08600 10111. Community members are also encouraged to submit tips anonymously through the MySAPSApp, which provides a secure platform for reporting crime-related information.
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