Police have detained a 17-year-old male as a suspect in the murder of six people at the Hakhaseb location in Usakos.

The suspect, who turns 18 tomorrow, is a relative of the deceased persons. 

The suspect is also charged with defeating the course of justice for allegedly burning the six victims in the early hours of Saturday.

It is alleged that the suspect entered the room and killed the victims by hitting them with an iron axe and knobkierie all over their bodies and thereafter setting them on fire, resulting in first- to second-degree burns.

Chief Inspector Iileni Shapumba said the suspect sustained injuries on both feet and was taken to Usakos State Hospital for treatment.

He added that an axe, which could be the possible murder weapon, was found at the scene.

Shapumba stressed that information relating to the cause of the cruel incident remains sketchy.

Police investigations continue.