RismadarVoice Reporters
September 27, 2026
At least 17 people have been killed and 15 others wounded after gunmen opened fire at a tavern in South Africa’s Gauteng province, prompting a manhunt for eight suspects.
The shooting occurred at a tavern in Wedela township, southwest of Johannesburg.
Emergency medical personnel pronounced all 17 victims dead at the scene, according to the South African Police Service, while those injured were taken to medical facilities for treatment.
Police said the suspected attackers were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols.
Authorities have not publicly identified the eight suspects being sought in connection with the attack, while the motive for the shooting remains unknown.
No arrests had been reported as of Sunday morning.
Police have appealed to members of the public with information that could assist the investigation to come forward as efforts continue to identify and locate those responsible.
Investigators are also gathering witness accounts and other evidence to determine whether the shooting was targeted and establish the circumstances that led to the attack.
The Wedela incident comes amid continuing concerns over deadly gun violence in South Africa, including shootings at taverns and other public places.
Another recent shooting in KwaMakhutha, south of Durban, left 11 people dead and three others injured.
Police have yet to establish whether there is any connection between the incidents.
The search for the eight suspects remains ongoing as authorities investigate the motive behind the Wedela shooting.
