A large-scale manhunt is in progress across South Africa after a mass shooting in Johannesburg killed at least 12 people on Wednesday night. The incident, which took place in the Soweto township, marks one of the deadliest attacks in the city in recent memory.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said officers were “pursuing multiple leads” and had launched a nationwide search for the suspects. “We are treating this as a priority. No stone will be left unturned,” she told reporters in Pretoria.
Witnesses reported two unidentified gunmen opening fire at a gathering in the Zola section of Soweto before fleeing on foot. The motive remains unclear. Authorities have not ruled out any possibility, including gang violence or a targeted attack that inadvertently hit civilians.
The shooting has reignited debate over South Africa’s high rates of violent crime. The country recorded more than 20,000 murders in the past year, a figure that has drawn international criticism. President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the attack as “a senseless act of violence” and promised additional resources for the investigation.
Emergency services rushed the wounded to nearby hospitals. At least eight people were reported in critical condition. The death toll may rise, officials warned.
South Africa’s police union demanded better protection for officers and called for the deployment of specialised units. “We are losing the battle against violent crime,” said union chair Mpho Kwinika. “This cannot continue.”
The manhunt involves multiple provinces, with checkpoints set up and forensic teams combing the scene. Police have appealed for public assistance, offering a reward of up to 1 million rand (approximately £40,000) for information leading to arrests.
The attack comes ahead of local elections, putting pressure on the government to address security concerns. Analysts say the incident could fuel political tensions in a country already grappling with economic inequality and social unrest.
International observers have expressed concern. The British High Commission in Pretoria issued a statement offering condolences and stressed the importance of a swift and transparent investigation.
As the search continues, residents of Soweto expressed shock and anger. “We are terrified,” said local shopkeeper Nomsa Dlamini. “The police must do more.”
The shooting is the deadliest in Johannesburg since the 2022 Soweto massacre, when 16 people were killed in a nightclub shooting. That case remains unsolved.
