South African police confirmed that 27 people were killed and more than 20 wounded in two separate shootings that took place in townships southwest of Johannesburg and near Cape Town. The first incident, occurring late Saturday night, saw at least 17 people lose their lives and 15 injured when gunmen opened fire on patrons outside a tavern in Wedela, West Rand district. Police are searching for eight suspects reportedly armed with AK‑47 rifles and pistols, though the motive remains unclear and no arrests have been made.
Early Sunday, gunmen struck a shop in Lwandle, killing at least 10 people and wounding 11. The attacks came just days after a house‑party shooting near Durban that claimed 11 lives, including a pregnant woman. In Wedela, investigators say the assault began around 9:30 pm (19:30 GMT), with gunmen firing at people gathered outside before entering the tavern. Some customers were searched and had their mobile phones seized. The attackers fled in two vehicles, while two other vehicles were set ablaze.
Captain Tintswalo Sibeko announced that detectives and specialist units have opened 17 murder cases, 15 attempted murder cases and two property‑damage cases, and are working to identify the eight suspects. In Lwandle, police are also searching for multiple suspects after the midnight shooting. South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of violent crime, prompting government pressure to enhance public safety in urban areas.
