Seventeen people have been killed in a mass shooting in a remote South African town.

According to the BBC, the police said two homesteads in the town of Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape, were targeted.

At least 12 women and one man were said to have been killed in one location, with three women and one man murdered in a second location.

An 18th victim is in critical condition in hospital.

The police said a manhunt for the perpetrators is under way.

Senzo Mchunu, the police minister, is expected to provide an update and visit the area where the attack occurred.

South African media report that the victims were preparing to attend a traditional mourning ceremony for a mother and daughter who were murdered a year ago.

They were packing goods and presents, including furniture, for the event when the attacked occurred on Friday night.

“The gunmen came and shot randomly, killing everyone. Women and children were also killed in the bloody shooting,“ the reports read.

“This has left the community terrified.”

Officials are yet to determine the motive or make any arrests.

Benin Republic prosecutors say they have foiled a suspected coup attempt scheduled to take place on Friday.

In a statement on Wednesday, Elonm Metonou, special prosecutor at Benin’s court for financial crimes and terrorism, said Oswald Homeky, a former sports minister, was caught Tuesday night handing over six bags of cash to Djimon Tevoedjre, commander of the republican guard and head of President Patrice Talon’s security.

Metonou said the bag contained 1.5 billion West African CFA francs (about $2.5 million).

Authorities said the suspects opened a bank account in Côte d’Ivoire under the commander’s name on August 6, adding that the money was transported in Homeky’s Toyota Prado, which bore fake license plates.

Olivier Boko, businessman and Talon’s longtime friend who was arrested separately on Monday, was in on the plot, according to the statement.

Boko was arrested in Cotonou, Benin’s economic capital. The businessman had recently started making known his plans to run for the presidency in 2026, when Talon’s second term in office ends.

According to investigators, Homeky and Boko paid off the military commander to not resist the planned coup.

Metonou said investigations are ongoing to arrest other suspects.

Since 2020, neighboring countries have experienced eight successful military takeovers and several attempts.

Talon, who has led Benin since 2016, faces criticism for what critics say is becoming an increasingly authoritarian rule.

Some observers argue that his policies have eroded democratic standards in the country.

Dr. (Mrs) Aisha Achimugu, OFR a Nigerian born industrialist and Humanitarian bags President Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award in Washington, DC.

In the letter dated on the 3rd of September, 2024 it reads;

This incredible award honors and recognizes her lifelong commitment to building a stronger Nigeria through her service and impressive philanthropy to the masses via her NGO, Sam Empowerment Foundation

It is with immense pride and admiration that we acknowledge your dedication, hard work, and exceptional talents that have made a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals.

Your tireless commitment to community service and artistic excellence has inspired us all and set a remarkable example for future generations.

We are delighted to honor you at this Presidential Award Night, which will take place at the Innovate Africa Gala Night, Sept. 14th, 2024, in DC.

Your journey, experiences, and the wisdom you have gained along the way can serve as a source of inspiration for all of us.’’ Innovate African Corporation letter

When asked how she feels being honored with such a prestigious awards she says;

‘’Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving as a business leader, humanitarian, philanthropist, and socialite. I have been fortunate to receive numerous awards, including The Best of Africa Innovative Leadership Award by Forbes Africa, Philanthropist of the Year Award by Leadership Newspapers, and Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by BusinessDay Newspapers. These accolades, while deeply gratifying, are not merely personal achievements but rather reflections of the collective impact we can achieve when we work together.

This year’s President’s Volunteer Achievement Award is more than just a plaque or a recognition; it is a call to action. It is a reminder of the immense power we possess to make a difference in the lives of others. It is a spur to continue my work in serving my communities, both here in the United States and in my native Nigeria.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the President and people of the United States for this extraordinary honor. I am also deeply grateful to my family, friends, and colleagues who have supported and encouraged me throughout my career. Their unwavering belief in me has been a constant source of inspiration.

As I accept this award, I pledge to continue my efforts to serve humanity. I will strive to make a lasting impact on my immediate and extended communities, both here and abroad.

Together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.’’

We wish Dr. Mrs. Aisha Achimugu a massive congratulations on this well-deserved recognition and, we look forward to celebrating more achievements with great enthusiasm.