Seventeen people were killed in a tragic mass shooting in the remote town of Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, with police launching a manhunt to track down the perpetrators responsible for the brutal attack.

According to the South Africa Police Service (SAPS), the massacre took place at two separate homesteads. The first location saw the deaths of 12 women and one man, while three women and one man were killed at a second site. An 18th victim, critically wounded, is currently being treated in hospital.

Authorities have revealed that the victims, relatives, and neighbors from Nyathi village, Ngobozana, were gathered to prepare for a traditional mourning ceremony when the gunmen attacked late Friday night. South African media have reported that the attackers opened fire indiscriminately, leaving the community devastated.

Local mayor Nonkosi Pepping described the event as horrific, stating, "The gunmen came and shot randomly, killing everyone. Women and children were also killed in the bloody shooting. This has left the community terrified."

The police ministers and commissioner are expected to provide a national briefing on the situation at 13:00 local time (12:00 BST) on Saturday as the investigation and search for the perpetrators continue.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and authorities are appealing for information from the public to assist in bringing those responsible to justice.