BEKKERSDAL, South Africa — A manhunt is under way after a mass shooting at a tavern in Bekkersdal, near Johannesburg, left nine people dead and 10 others wounded, police said Monday.
Authorities said about 12 unidentified gunmen arrived in two vehicles and opened fire indiscriminately on patrons. Seven men and two women were killed at the scene, police said, while some victims were shot as they tried to flee. Another person was reported killed nearby after dropping off a passenger.
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Police described the attackers as unidentified and said the assault appeared to be unprovoked. The motive remained unclear as investigators collected evidence and interviewed witnesses, officials said. A regional police spokesman said a manhunt involving multiple units had been launched to track down those responsible.
The shooting renewed alarm over rising gun violence in South Africa, where community members described regular nightly gunfire in Bekkersdal. Local leaders and residents told reporters that police in the area were under-resourced, and several called for stronger national intervention to protect small-town communities.
“People are afraid to go out at night,” one resident told local media. “We hear shots often, but nothing like this has happened before.” Police cautioned the scene was still an active crime investigation and urged anyone with information or cellphone footage to come forward.
Emergency services transported the injured to nearby hospitals; their conditions were not immediately disclosed. Authorities said forensic teams were processing the tavern and surrounding areas for ballistic evidence and other clues that could identify the attackers or the weapons used.
Bekkersdal has in recent years been challenged by unemployment and social strain, factors community leaders say contribute to rising tensions and violence. National and provincial officials have previously pledged resources to tackle crime, but residents and local officials say response times and police presence remain inconsistent.
Police asked residents to remain calm but vigilant while the investigation continues. Crime analysts say the brazenness of the attack — a large, coordinated ambush in a public venue — underscores growing concerns about the accessibility of firearms and the capacity of law enforcement to prevent mass shootings in some South African townships.
Investigators have not released details on any arrests or suspects. Anyone with information about the Bekkersdal shooting was urged to contact local police tip lines.
By News-room
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
