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.