At least 12 people were killed and nine others injured after a mass shooting at an informal settlement in Cleveland, east of Johannesburg, South Africa, late on Tuesday night. Police have launched a large-scale manhunt for more than 10 suspects believed to be involved in the attack.
According to police, the attackers arrived in a white Toyota Quantum minibus and entered the Jumpers informal settlement through two access points before opening fire at several locations within the community. After the shooting, the gunmen fled the area in the same vehicle, triggering an intensive search operation by law enforcement agencies.
Officials reported that 11 victims died at the scene, while another later succumbed to injuries in hospital, raising the death toll to 12. The victims included nine men and three women. The nine injured survivors were rushed to medical facilities for treatment and remain under observation.
Police said the motive behind the attack remains unclear and no arrests have been made so far. Investigators are examining evidence from the crime scene and interviewing witnesses in an effort to identify those responsible. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward.
The incident occurred in an informal settlement, a type of unplanned residential area commonly found in South Africa and often made up of makeshift structures and shacks. Such communities frequently face challenges related to poverty, overcrowding and limited public services.
The Cleveland area has previously been associated with illegal mining activities, and authorities have noted that some violent incidents in and around Johannesburg have been linked to criminal groups operating in the region. However, police have not established any connection between those activities and the latest shooting.
South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of violent crime. The country records one of the highest murder rates in the world, with dozens of homicides reported daily. Mass shootings have repeatedly shocked communities across the nation in recent years, including several deadly incidents involving multiple gunmen.
The latest tragedy has renewed concerns over public safety and gun violence, as residents and community leaders call for stronger measures to combat organized crime and illegal firearms. Meanwhile, police remain focused on tracking down the suspects and uncovering the circumstances that led to the attack.
