Twelve people have been killed and several others injured following a mass shooting at the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg, on Tuesday night.
According to police, the shooting happened at about 23:10 when members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) responded to reports of gunfire in the area.
On arrival, officers found multiple victims with gunshot wounds scattered across the informal settlement. Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene to assist the injured.
Police said 11 victims eight men and three women were declared dead at the scene, while another man later died in hospital, bringing the death toll to 12.
Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said preliminary investigations indicate that more than 10 suspects arrived in a white Toyota Quantum near a petrol station in Cleveland before entering the informal settlement through different entrances.
“The suspects allegedly moved through the informal settlement, opening fire on residents and community members at multiple locations before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle,” said Nevhuhulwi.
At least nine other people were rushed to various medical facilities for treatment.
Provincial and district detectives, assisted by crime intelligence and forensic experts, have since been mobilised to investigate the shooting and track down those responsible.
“The motive for the attack is currently unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made at this stage,” Nevhuhulwi added.
Police have appealed to anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tip-offs through the MySAPS mobile application.
