Seventeen people died after gunmen opened fire at the Nomzamo Tavern in Orlando East, Soweto, early Sunday morning. Police launched a manhunt for the suspects, who arrived in a white Toyota Quantum minibus, opened fire on patrons, and fled the scene.
The victims, aged between 19 and 35, were shot with high-caliber firearms. Three others sustained critical injuries and are receiving treatment at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, with their conditions described as stable but serious.
Gauteng Provincial Police Commissioner Elias Mawela said forensic teams are processing the crime scene for evidence. "We are committed to bringing these ruthless killers to justice and ensuring the safety of our communities," Mawela said during a press briefing near the tavern. Authorities appealed to the public for information that could lead to identification and arrest of the perpetrators.
The incident marks one of the deadliest mass shootings in South Africa in recent years. President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a statement condemning the "senseless violence" and extended condolences to the victims' families.
Investigators are working to establish a motive, considering gang violence, a targeted killing, or a robbery attempt. Police roadblocks have been set up across the province. No arrests have been made as of Sunday afternoon.
