Police in KwaZulu-Natal have initiated an urgent search for at least five suspects connected to a tragic shooting at a tavern in Sundumbili, North Coast. The incident, which unfolded on Monday night at a tavern located on Ikhwezi Road in Bhidla Section, resulted in the loss of four lives, including two off-duty police constables.
According to KZN police spokesperson Robert Nethsuinda, the events leading up to the shooting began with an altercation between one of the constables and a group of five men. The disagreement, initially resolved amicably, saw the constable buying drinks for the group. However, tensions flared again outside the tavern, where a second confrontation occurred between the same group and the other constable. This encounter escalated, resulting in the constable being shot.
The injured officer reportedly ran back into the tavern in search of safety, but the suspects pursued him, firing indiscriminately inside the establishment. Three people, including the wounded constable, were fatally shot on the spot. The second officer, also injured in the chaos, was rushed to a nearby medical facility but was declared dead upon arrival.
In addition to the fatalities, four other patrons sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to hospital for treatment. Their current conditions have not been disclosed.
Following the incident, police cordoned off the tavern and confiscated its liquor stock after discovering that the establishment was operating without the necessary licenses. Authorities are still working to determine the motive behind the shooting.
Law enforcement is urging anyone with information about the suspects or the incident to contact their nearest police station or call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. The community’s cooperation is crucial as authorities work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice and restore a sense of safety to the area.
