27 killed in two South Africa shootings

At least 27 people have been killed and more than 20 wounded in two separate shootings in South African townships, according to police as reported by Aljazeera.

The first attack occurred late Saturday at a tavern in Wedela, southwest of Johannesburg, where at least 17 people were killed and 15 others wounded.

Police said the gunmen opened fire on people gathered outside the tavern before entering the premises and continuing to shoot.

Some customers were reportedly searched during the attack and had their mobile phones taken.

The suspects, who police said were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols, escaped in two vehicles.

Two other vehicles were set alight during the incident.

Police said the motive remained unknown and no arrests had been made.

Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said detectives and specialist police units had been deployed to identify and apprehend the eight suspected attackers.

Police have opened 17 murder cases, 15 attempted murder cases and two cases relating to property damage.

In a separate incident early Sunday, at least 10 people were killed and 11 others wounded when gunmen opened fire at a store in Lwandle near Cape Town.

Police said they were searching for multiple suspects in connection with the attack, which occurred after midnight.

The latest shootings come only days after another mass shooting near Durban left 11 people dead, including a pregnant woman.

The attacks have renewed concerns over South Africa’s persistent levels of violent crime, particularly shootings involving illegal firearms.

Authorities have faced sustained pressure to strengthen public safety, especially in urban and high-crime areas.

Police have in recent months increased operations targeting gun-related crime, but the latest incidents have highlighted the continuing challenge posed by armed violence in communities.

The motives behind the three recent attacks have not been established, with investigations into the shootings continuing.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.