POLICE have launched a manhunt for at least five suspects – four shooters and a driver – who gunned down five people in the Richards Bay CBD on Tuesday morning.
The bloody incident unfolded in the parking lot adjacent to Bullion Boulevard, near the post office building, with bodies strewn over a 100m area as the victims apparently tried to flee on foot.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Five killed in callous Richards Bay CBD shooting
According to SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, four suspects alighted from a vehicle and opened fire on the victims. Four people were certified dead at the scene, while the fifth victim succumbed to gunshot wounds while being transported privately to a local clinic.
The suspects reportedly fled from the scene in a blue or silver VW Polo with ND registration.
The motive for the shooting has not been established, although a drug-related turf war could not be ruled out.
Police are appealing to anyone who may have information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects, to contact the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Alternatively, they can tip off the police anonymously through the MySAPS app.
Meanwhile, there is still a heavy police presence at the scene, with an area approximately 200m x 200m cordoned off by authorities.
As forensic investigators combed the scene this morning, more than a dozen cases were found scattered alongside bodies.
It is believed to be pistol shots at close range, carried out by professional gunmen.
Spectators continue to line the cordoned-off area and are being urged not to circulate graphic photos taken earlier from the crime scene.
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