Nine people were killed and 10 others injured after a mass shooting at a tavern in Bekkersdal, near Johannesburg, South Africa. Police have launched a manhunt for the attackers.
According to authorities, about 12 unidentified gunmen arrived at the tavern in two vehicles at around 01:00 local time on Sunday. They opened fire on patrons and continued shooting randomly as people attempted to flee. Seven men and two women were killed in the attack.
Deputy provincial police commissioner, Major-General Fred Kekana, told broadcaster Newzroom Afrika that the attack appeared to be unprovoked. He said the gunmen were armed with pistols and an AK-47.
Two victims were shot outside the tavern while trying to escape, while another victim was a taxi driver who had just dropped off a passenger nearby.
Residents described chaotic scenes following the shooting. One local, Nokuthula Bhukwana, said many people were found lying on the floor when they arrived at the scene. With ambulances delayed, residents used wheelbarrows to transport some of the injured to a nearby clinic.
Another resident said gunfire had become common in the area at night, describing the situation as terrifying and lawless.
Local deputy mayor Nontombi Molatlhegi said fear prevented residents from identifying suspects. She added that police were under-resourced and called on the national government to deploy the military to help protect the community.
South Africa has one of the highest murder rates globally, with an average of 63 killings per day recorded between April and September this year. While there are around three million legally owned firearms in the country, experts estimate a similar number of illegal weapons are also in circulation.
The motive for the attack remains unclear. However, mass shootings have increased significantly since 2020, with taverns and informal drinking spots often targeted. Although reports show a slight decline in mass shootings in 2025, violence linked to firearms continues to threaten many communities across the country.
