Nine people were killed and at least 10 others were injured in a deadly shooting south-west of Johannesburg. The attack occurred early Sunday morning at a licensed tavern. Police have launched a large-scale manhunt for the suspects.
The South African Police Service confirmed the incident in an official statement. It said the shooting took place just before 1am local time. The tavern is located in Bekkersdal township.
According to police, multiple attackers carried out the assault. About 12 unidentified suspects arrived at the scene. They used a white minibus and a silver sedan.
Police said the gunmen opened fire on patrons inside the tavern. They continued shooting indiscriminately as they fled. The attackers escaped before officers arrived.
Emergency services responded soon after the attack. Paramedics rushed the injured to nearby medical facilities. Doctors are treating victims for gunshot wounds.
Police confirmed that 10 people sustained injuries. Some victims remain in serious condition. Authorities have not released their identities.
Investigators have secured the crime scene. Forensic teams collected evidence from inside and outside the tavern. Officers also canvassed nearby areas for witnesses.
Police said the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Investigators will determine whether the attack was targeted. They will also examine links to organised crime.
Authorities urged the public to cooperate with the investigation. Police asked anyone with information to come forward. They said community assistance could prove crucial.
Bekkersdal township forms part of the Rand West City local municipality. The area lies south-west of Johannesburg. It has long faced deep socio-economic challenges.
According to municipal records, Bekkersdal suffers from high unemployment. Poverty levels remain widespread across the township. The decline of gold mining has worsened conditions.
Residents have often complained about crime in the area. Taverns and public spaces have previously seen violent incidents. Community leaders have called for stronger policing.
Sunday’s shooting has renewed fears among residents. Many described the attack as shocking and brutal. Some said such violence has become increasingly frequent.
Local officials expressed concern over the incident. They said gun violence continues to threaten public safety. Calls for urgent intervention followed the attack.
South Africa continues to struggle with violent crime nationwide. The country records one of the highest murder rates globally. On average, about 60 murders occur each day.
Criminal violence remains a major challenge for law enforcement. Firearms often play a central role in attacks. Illegal weapons circulate widely across communities.
Police say they are intensifying efforts to track the suspects. Specialized units have joined the operation. Roadblocks and patrols have increased in nearby areas.
Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage. They are also analyzing ballistic evidence recovered at the scene. Authorities hope these steps will identify the attackers.
The government has repeatedly pledged to curb gun violence. Officials say they aim to strengthen law enforcement capacity. However, progress remains slow.
Community activists argue that poverty fuels crime. They say joblessness leaves young people vulnerable to gangs. Social investment, they argue, must accompany policing.
Meanwhile, families of the victims are mourning their losses. Community members gathered near the tavern to light candles. Many demanded justice for the dead.
Police said updates will follow as the investigation continues. They reiterated their commitment to arrest the perpetrators. Authorities vowed to restore calm in the area.
The attack adds to growing concerns about public safety. Analysts say sustained reforms are urgently needed. Without them, violence may continue to claim lives.
