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| Two ANC councillors were gunned down in KwaZulu-Natal. Image:Pexels |
Two African National Congress (ANC) members, a man and a woman, were shot dead in Area 24, Umgababa, on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast on Thursday, 15 October 2026. Police have opened two murder cases and three counts of attempted murder.
The victims were reportedly taking part in a door-to-door campaign when gunmen opened fire. Police say the motive is unknown.
Key facts
- A man and a woman were declared dead at the scene on Thursday afternoon.
- Police have opened two murder cases and three counts of attempted murder.
- The attackers arrived in a white Isuzu bakkie and reportedly used rifles and pistols.
- Two bodyguards fled and had not been found at the time of reporting.
- The ANC says the dead were a branch coordinator and a volunteer.
What happened
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said two women and a man linked to a political party, along with two bodyguards, were campaigning door to door when a white Isuzu bakkie approached them from behind. The occupants reportedly fired at the five people with rifles and pistols.
A man and a woman died at the scene. A woman reportedly injured her leg while running away. The two bodyguards fled and, according to police, had not yet been found.
ANC eThekwini convenor Thanduxolo Sabela said party councillors were ambushed. He said the branch coordinator and a volunteer died in the shooting in ward 98, while the ward candidate was rushed to hospital and is fine.
Background and context
Netshiunda said the motive is unknown, but that "political intolerance cannot be ruled out". Sabela said the party did not expect campaigners to meet such hostility while campaigning.
The shooting follows another attack a few months ago, when ANC councillor Sibusiso "Khekhe" Khwela was shot dead in broad daylight in Klaarwater, according to The South African.
What this means for you
For residents of Umgababa and nearby areas. Police are on the scene and investigating. Anyone who saw the white Isuzu bakkie or has information can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
For political parties and campaigners. The attack highlights the risks to people campaigning door to door. Parties and candidates concerned about their safety can raise it with their local police station.
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What happens next
- Police are investigating the two murders and three attempted murders.
- The two bodyguards who fled are yet to be found.
- Police have not named a suspect or confirmed a motive.
Frequently asked questions
Where did the shooting happen?
In Area 24, Umgababa, on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, on Thursday afternoon.
How many people were killed?
Two: a man and a woman, both ANC members, according to the party.
What is the motive?
Police say it is unknown, though they have not ruled out political intolerance.
Has anyone been arrested?
The report does not mention any arrests.
Editor's note
Reports differ on how many people were injured. Police mention one woman with a leg injury, while an eyewitness post cited in the report refers to a further three injured. The investigation is ongoing and details may change.
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