At least 12 people have been killed and nine others injured after unknown gunmen attacked an informal settlement in Johannesburg, opening fire indiscriminately before fleeing the scene.
The attack occurred late on Tuesday night when about 10 armed men reportedly stormed the Jumpers Informal Settlement in the suburb of Cleveland and began shooting residents before escaping in a white vehicle.
On Wednesday, police confirmed that eight men and three women died at the scene, while another victim later died in hospital, bringing the death toll to 12.
At least nine injured persons were taken to nearby medical facilities, where they are currently receiving treatment for gunshot wounds as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Police said the suspects were allegedly dropped off by a white Toyota Quantum near a petrol station in Cleveland before entering the settlement through multiple access points.
“The suspects allegedly entered the informal settlement through both entrances and moved through the area, opening fire on residents and community members at multiple locations before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle,” police said.
Authorities said the motive for the attack remains unknown and is part of an ongoing investigation.
During a visit to the scene on Wednesday morning, provincial police commissioner Lt. Gen. Tommy Mthombeni said investigators had not ruled out possible links to illegal mining activities in the area.
“As you know, this area is adjacent to the illegal mining area. We are having those suspicions,” he told reporters, describing the attack as “heartless” and “barbaric”.
Shootings in informal settlements remain a recurring challenge in South Africa, often linked to gang rivalries, criminal disputes, or other forms of violent conflict.
Last year, nine people were killed in a mass shooting at a Johannesburg tavern, highlighting the country’s ongoing struggle with gun violence.
With millions of firearms, both legal and illegal, circulating across the country, security experts warn that widespread gun availability continues to fuel deadly attacks.
Police say investigations are ongoing, while residents of Cleveland remain in shock following the deadly assault on their community.