KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has called for severe punishment for three suspects accused of murdering seven members of the Monswamy family in Newark.
Ntuli was speaking outside the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where the accused were expected to make their appearance.
The Premier expressed concern over the young ages of the suspects, while noting that provincial interventions are being implemented to steer young people away from crime.
Outside the court, community members staged a protest, demanding justice for the slain family.
The victims aged between 20 and 80 were discovered in a field in Melmoth last week. They included four women and three men, all of whom had been shot and stabbed, according to police.
Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings, while a fourth remains at large. Authorities confirmed that two of the accused were previously employed by the family.
Police investigations revealed that two cellphones belonging to the victims were allegedly found in the suspects’ possession. A firearm believed to have been used in the attack has also been recovered.
The case initially came to light following reports of a house robbery at the Monswamy residence on Tuesday night. A kidnapping case was opened the following day after a domestic worker arrived at the home and found it deserted.
Police have further indicated that the youngest victim, a 20-year-old woman, was allegedly sexually assaulted during the incident.
Deputy Provincial Police Commissioner Anthony Gopaul confirmed that a stolen Ford Ranger linked to the case has been recovered. The vehicle was allegedly handed to another individual to sell but was later abandoned.
The victims were laid to rest over the weekend, where Ntuli reiterated that law enforcement agencies would continue to pursue justice.
The motive for the attack remains under investigation.