By Paul Aondoakaa 

A young pharmacist, reportedly identified as Nomzila Madinane, was shot dead alongside a cashier and a security guard during an attack at a newly opened pharmacy in Inchanga, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, just days after the pharmacy reportedly began operations to improve healthcare access for residents in the area.

A newly established pharmacy in Inchanga, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, became the scene of a fatal shooting after unknown gunmen reportedly attacked the facility, killing three people.

The victims were identified as pharmacist Nomzila Madinane, a cashier and a security guard attached to the pharmacy.

According to reports, the incident occurred on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, only days after Madinane opened the pharmacy to expand access to healthcare services for residents of KwaNyuswa, near Hillcrest.

Residents reportedly said the community previously faced challenges accessing medications and healthcare services due to travel distances.

KwaZulu-Natal police confirmed the incident and announced that three murder cases had been opened.
Police spokesperson, Robert Netshiunda, said the victims were attacked by unknown assailants while at the pharmacy.

“Inchanga police opened three cases of murder following an incident in which two females and a security guard were shot by unknown people,” Netshiunda reportedly stated.

He added that the pharmacist and cashier died at the scene, while the security guard, who was initially taken to hospital after sustaining gunshot injuries, later died.

According to police reports, three armed men allegedly entered the pharmacy and opened fire.
The motive for the attack has not been officially established.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including whether robbery or another factor may have been involved.

The incident has reportedly left residents shocked, with many describing Madinane as a young entrepreneur dedicated to improving healthcare access in her community.