Manhunt underway in South Africa after group of assailants fatally shoot 9 at tavern

Gunmen opened fire at a tavern in Bekkersdal, a township west of Johannesburg, killing at least nine people in the early hours of Sunday. The assailants, numbering up to a dozen, arrived in two vehicles, a white van, and a silver sedan, before storming into KWA Noxolo tavern and shooting at patrons inside.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing about 12 suspects armed with nine pistols and an AK-47-style assault rifle. The shooters, all men, fatally shot three people inside the tavern, according to Fred Kekana, the police commissioner of Gauteng province. The violence continued outside the tavern, where six more people, including a passing driver, were fatally shot. Additionally, at least 10 others were injured in the attack.

Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the shooting. It was reported that the assailants searched the bodies of the dead and injured individuals, stealing valuables such as cellphones. The tavern, which operated as a shebeen, an informal licensed bar popular in townships, is located about 25 miles west of Johannesburg in Gauteng’s West Rand area, historically known for supporting local mining operations.

The South African Police Service is actively investigating the tragic incident, which has left the community in shock and mourning. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time.