In the early hours of Friday, January 17, 2025, the bodies of five men were discovered near Inanda Newtown Comprehensive High School in Inanda, KwaZulu-Natal. The victims had suffered multiple head and body injuries consistent with hacking. 
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) received multiple distress calls from residents and students around 6:40 am. Upon arrival, RUSA officers, along with paramedics and police, located three bodies. Further searches in the surrounding field led to the discovery of two additional victims. All five men were declared deceased at the scene. 
Preliminary reports suggest that a vigilante group may be responsible for these killings. Community members allege that such groups have been active in the area, targeting individuals they suspect of criminal activities. 
Law enforcement agencies have intensified patrols in the region to prevent further incidents and are urging residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. Authorities emphasize the importance of reporting suspected criminal activities to the police rather than resorting to violence.
Investigations are ongoing to identify the victims and apprehend those responsible for the murders. Police have appealed to anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
This tragic event underscores the challenges faced by communities grappling with crime and the dangers of vigilantism. Authorities continue to advocate for community cooperation with law enforcement to ensure justice and safety for all residents.
