South African authorities have launched a massive manhunt following a brutal shooting at a licensed tavern in Bekkersdal, a township near Johannesburg, which left nine people dead and 10 others injured.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:00 AM local time on Sunday (23:00 GMT Saturday). According to police reports, a group of roughly 12 unidentified gunmen arrived at the scene in two vehicles. Witnesses state that the assailants "opened fire at tavern patrons" before continuing to shoot randomly as they made their escape.
Law enforcement agencies are currently tracking the suspects. No arrests have been made, and the motive behind the random shooting remains unclear.
Nine fatalities were confirmed at the scene, while 10 survivors are receiving treatment for varying degrees of injuries.
This tragedy highlights the ongoing struggle with violent crime in South Africa. The country maintains one of the highest murder rates globally, with UN figures from 2023-24 recording 45 murders per 100,000 people.
The police confirmed that the establishment was a legally licensed tavern, raising further alarms regarding the safety of public social spaces in the region.
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