South African police have arrested three individuals in connection with the brutal killing of 18 family members, most of whom were women, at a rural homestead last week, the country's police minister announced on Sunday.
A fourth suspect is still being sought following the massacre, which took place in the early hours of September 28 in the Eastern Cape province. Police Minister Senzo Mchunu made the announcement during a memorial service held near the scene of the tragedy.
Gunmen stormed two homes in Lusikisiki, located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) southwest of Durban, and opened fire, killing 17 people on the spot. An 18th victim later died in the hospital. The ages of the victims ranged from 14 to 64, with South African media reporting that 15 of those killed were women, several of whom were shot in the head.
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The motive for the attack, which occurred as the family gathered for a traditional ceremony, remains unknown. The massacre has left South Africa in shock, fueling calls for increased police protection in a country grappling with one of the highest murder rates in the world.
