MWE Correspondent
At least 12 people have been killed after a group of more than 10 armed individuals opened fire in an informal settlement in South Africa during the night on Tuesday, in what authorities describe as a coordinated and violent attack.
According to police, the attackers moved through different sections of the settlement, randomly firing at residents before fleeing the scene. The assault reportedly took place across multiple locations within the same informal area, creating panic and chaos among residents.
Authorities said the number of injured victims has not yet been confirmed as emergency teams continue to assess the full scale of the incident. Police and forensic investigators were deployed to the scene shortly after the attack was reported.
South African Police Service officials have launched a manhunt for the suspects, with ongoing operations aimed at tracking down those responsible. Investigators are also working to establish the motive behind the attack, which remains unclear at this stage.
Early reports suggest the attackers were heavily armed and coordinated in their movements, though police have not confirmed whether the incident is linked to gang activity, criminal disputes, or other possible causes.
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The incident has left residents of the affected informal settlement in shock, with many expressing fear over rising insecurity in the area. Community leaders have called for increased police visibility and urgent intervention to prevent further violence.
South Africa has in recent years struggled with high levels of violent crime in some urban and peri-urban areas, including sporadic mass shootings linked to gang rivalries and criminal networks. However, authorities have emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen policing and improve public safety.
Police have urged anyone with information about the attackers to come forward as investigations continue. Further updates are expected as more details emerge from the scene.
The tragedy adds to growing concerns about safety in vulnerable communities across parts of the country, where residents often face limited security presence and high exposure to violent crime.
