12 killed, 9 injured in Johannesburg mass shooting; police launch manhunt

At least 12 people were killed and nine others injured in a mass shooting at an informal settlement near Johannesburg, prompting South African police to launch a manhunt for more than 10 suspects believed to be involved in the attack.

At least 12 people were killed and nine injured in a mass shooting at an informal settlement near Johannesburg, with South African police searching for more than 10 suspects believed to be involved in the attack.

The shooting took place late on the night of June 9 at the Jumpers informal settlement in Cleveland, east of Johannesburg. According to police, a group of armed assailants arrived in a white Toyota Quantum and entered the settlement through two access points before opening fire at multiple locations. The attackers later fled in the same vehicle.

Police said eight men and three women were declared dead at the scene, while another victim later succumbed to injuries in hospital, taking the death toll to 12. Nine people who sustained gunshot wounds were taken to hospitals for treatment.

Authorities said the motive behind the attack remains unknown and investigations are underway. No arrests had been reported at the time of filing, with law enforcement agencies intensifying efforts to trace the suspects.

The attack occurred in an area that has previously witnessed incidents linked to violent crime and illegal activities. Police have not yet indicated whether the shooting was connected to gang rivalries, organised crime or other disputes.

South Africa continues to grapple with one of the highest violent crime rates in the world. Official data shows the country records an average of around 60 homicides a day, with gun violence remaining a major public safety concern.

The latest incident adds to a series of mass shootings reported across South Africa in recent years, renewing concerns about the proliferation of illegal firearms and persistent levels of violent crime in parts of the country.