12 Killed, Nine Injured in Mass Shooting in Johannesburg

At least 12 people were killed and nine others injured in a late-night mass shooting in Johannesburg, South Africa, prompting authorities to launch a major manhunt for the attackers.

According to South African police, more than 10 armed suspects arrived at the Jumpers informal settlement in the Cleveland area east of Johannesburg on Tuesday night. The attackers reportedly entered the settlement through multiple access points before opening fire on residents at several locations. They later fled the scene in a white Toyota Quantum minibus.

Police said 11 victims died at the scene, while another succumbed to injuries in hospital. The deceased included nine men and three women, while at least nine other victims were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

Authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the attack, and no arrests have been made. Detectives, forensic experts, and crime intelligence officers have been deployed to investigate the incident and track down those responsible.

The Cleveland area has previously been linked to illegal mining activities, and some observers have speculated that the attack could be connected to criminal turf wars. However, police officials cautioned that it is too early to draw conclusions until investigations are completed.

The latest bloodshed adds to growing concerns over violent crime in South Africa, which continues to record one of the world’s highest homicide rates. The country has witnessed several high-profile mass shootings in recent months, raising renewed calls for stronger security measures.