Police have launched a manhunt after a late-night attack in the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg, left 12 people dead and at least nine wounded. Witnesses say more than 10 armed suspects arrived in a white Toyota Quantum, moved through the settlement and opened fire in multiple locations before fleeing. Investigators have not confirmed a motive but are considering a possible link to illegal mining in the area. Authorities described the attack as "heartless" and are appealing for information as the investigation continues.
Manhunt Under Way After Mass Shooting Kills 12 in Johannesburg Informal Settlement
No arrests have been made but the police say they are following all possible leads [Reuters]
Police in South Africa have launched a manhunt after a mass shooting in the Jumpers Informal Settlement, in the Cleveland suburb of Johannesburg, left 12 people dead and at least nine others wounded.
What Happened
Officers responded to reports of a "shooting in progress" at about 23:10 local time on Tuesday (21:10 GMT). Police say more than 10 heavily armed suspects, carrying rifles, were dropped off near a petrol station in a white Toyota Quantum before entering the settlement through both entrances and opening fire at multiple locations across the area. The attackers fled in the same vehicle.
[Getty Images/BBC]
Casualties and Response
Police reported that eight men and three women were pronounced dead at the scene and another man later died in hospital, bringing the total to 12. At least nine other people were taken to various medical facilities with gunshot wounds. No arrests have been announced and investigators are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
Possible Motive
Investigators have not confirmed a motive. Provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Tommy Mthombeni described the attack as "heartless" and "barbaric" and said authorities cannot rule out a connection to illegal mining because the settlement borders areas where informal mining takes place. Community members suggested the shooting may be linked to a turf war between competing groups of illegal miners.
Wider Context
Illegal mining, often centered on disused gold workings, has increased in South Africa and is frequently associated with violent clashes as groups compete for shafts and sell finds on the black market. Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa deployed military personnel to assist efforts to shut down some illegal mining operations. The country also faces a high prevalence of firearms: estimates cited by the South African Gunowners' Association put the number of legally held guns at roughly three million, with a similar number unlicensed.
Police say the manhunt is ongoing as investigators continue to collect evidence and speak with community members. Authorities have appealed to anyone with information to come forward.
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