Police in Calcutta have launched a manhunt for suspects following a fatal shooting incident in the Tsemamarhumbu area on Wednesday evening, 22 January 2026.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), officers were conducting routine patrols in the Mkhuhlu area at about 7.30pm when they received information about a shooting. Police immediately proceeded to the scene, where they discovered a white Isuzu bakkie with Mpumalanga registration plates riddled with bullet holes. The rear window of the vehicle had also been damaged.

Inside the bakkie, police found the lifeless body of a 56-year-old man. Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim had just left his home and was attacked a few metres from his residence. Spent cartridges from a high-calibre firearm were also recovered at the scene.

The motive for the killing is still unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made at this stage.

Police are appealing to members of the public who may have information that could assist the investigation to come forward. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Lieutenant Colonel Sikhumbuzo Ceko on 082 922 9902, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or submit tips via the MySAPS App. All information will be treated as confidential, and anonymity is guaranteed.

Condemning the attack, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, said police would work tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice. He described the incident as a senseless and violent act that has no place in communities.

Investigations are continuing.