JOHANNESBURG — At least nine people were killed and 10 others injured in a shooting at a tavern in a neighborhood west of Johannesburg, highlighting persistent concerns over gun violence in South Africa, authorities said Friday.
The attack took place late Thursday in the Bekkersdal area, where unidentified gunmen opened fire inside a crowded local tavern, according to South Africa’s public broadcaster SABC. Witnesses reported that the assailants arrived suddenly and began shooting indiscriminately, triggering panic among patrons.
Emergency services rushed the wounded to nearby hospitals, while police cordoned off the scene to collect evidence. The injured were reported to be in varying conditions, with some requiring intensive medical treatment, officials said.
South African police confirmed the incident and said a full-scale investigation has been launched. “We are pursuing multiple leads and have deployed additional resources to locate the suspects,” police said in a statement. Officers have also increased patrols in and around Bekkersdal to prevent further violence and reassure residents.
The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and authorities have not ruled out possible links to criminal activity or gang-related violence. No arrests had been made as of Friday, and police appealed to the public for information that could assist the investigation.
Community leaders condemned the attack and called for stronger measures to address rising violence in the area. Bekkersdal, a densely populated township, has previously experienced high levels of crime, including shootings linked to organized criminal networks.
South Africa continues to struggle with widespread gun violence, with taverns and other social venues frequently targeted in deadly attacks. Security analysts say the incident underscores the urgent need for tougher gun control enforcement and community-based crime prevention strategies.
Authorities said further details would be released as investigations continue.
