At least 27 people died and more than 20 were wounded in two shootings in South African townships over the weekend, police said.
The first attack happened late on Saturday at a tavern in Wedela, southwest of Johannesburg. At least 17 people were killed and 15 wounded in the shooting that started around 9:30pm local time. Witnesses told police the gunmen fired at people gathered outside before entering the tavern and continuing to shoot. Some customers were searched during the attack, and their mobile phones were taken.
Police said they were looking for eight suspects, who were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols. The attackers escaped in two vehicles, and two other vehicles were set on fire during the attack. Authorities opened 17 murder cases, 15 attempted murder cases, and two cases related to property damage in connection with the shooting. Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said detectives and specialist police units were assigned to identify and find the suspects. The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and no arrests have been announced.
Just hours later on Sunday, gunmen killed at least 10 people and wounded 11 in a shooting at a store in Lwandle, near Cape Town. Police are searching for multiple suspects in that case, which took place shortly after midnight.
These shootings come just days after a shooting at a house party near Durban killed 11 people, including a pregnant woman. South Africa continues to see high levels of violent crime involving firearms, especially in urban areas.
The government has faced pressure to improve public safety. Police have stepped up operations targeting gun crime in major cities, but incidents like these show the challenge remains.
The violence over the weekend added to the toll of gun-related deaths in the country. Police have not yet linked the attacks or provided further details on possible motives or suspects. Investigations are ongoing.
According to Joy Online.
