Two separate shootings in South African townships left at least 27 people dead and more than 20 injured, officials said. In Wedela, near Johannesburg, a tavern attack killed 17 and wounded 15; police are seeking eight suspects reportedly armed with AK-47s and pistols. Early on Sunday, a store shooting in Lwandle, near Cape Town, killed 10 and wounded 11. Authorities have opened multiple murder and attempted murder investigations as the country confronts persistently high levels of gun violence.
At Least 27 Killed in Two Township Shootings in South Africa as Police Hunt Suspects
At least 27 people have been killed and more than 20 others wounded in two separate shootings in South African townships, police said on Sunday. The attacks — one at a tavern near Johannesburg and another at a store near Cape Town — have intensified calls for stronger action against gun crime.
Wedela Tavern Attack
The first attack occurred late on Saturday at a tavern in Extension 3, Wedela, in the West Rand district of Gauteng province. Police said at least 17 people were killed and 15 wounded when gunmen opened fire at patrons gathered outside the venue before entering and continuing to shoot. Investigators reported that some customers were searched and had their mobile phones taken during the assault.
Authorities said the suspects fled in two vehicles and that two other vehicles were set alight during the incident. Police are searching for eight suspects who were "reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols," Capt. Tintswalo Sibeko said. Investigators have opened 17 murder cases, 15 attempted murder cases and two counts related to property damage in connection with the Wedela attack.
Lwandle Store Shooting
In a separate incident early on Sunday, gunmen opened fire at a store in Lwandle, near Cape Town, killing at least 10 people and wounding 11 others. Police said the attack happened after midnight and that they were searching for multiple suspects believed to be involved.
Wider Context and Response
Both shootings come just days after a mass shooting at a house party near Durban that left 11 dead, including a pregnant woman. South Africa continues to register persistently high levels of violent crime, particularly incidents involving firearms. The government has faced sustained pressure to improve public safety, and police have reported stepping up operations aimed at curbing gun crime in major urban areas.
Police appeal to anyone with information or footage from either incident to come forward to assist ongoing investigations.
Help us improve.
