Authorities said the attack occurred near a tavern in the early hours of the morning. Witnesses reported that multiple suspects arrived in two vehicles, a white minibus taxi and a silver sedan, and began shooting at people inside and outside the establishment. The attackers continued firing as they fled, hitting bystanders who were not inside the bar.

Among those killed was a driver working for a ride-hailing service who had been waiting outside, police confirmed. Several wounded victims were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Unclear Motive, Manhunt Underway

Police said the motive for the attack remains unknown. While initial reports suggested the tavern was operating illegally, authorities later clarified that the establishment was licensed. Investigators are collecting statements, and specialised crime scene, intelligence, and serious crimes units have been deployed to the area.

“Ten people are dead. We don’t have a breakdown of who they are,” Brigadier Brenda Muridili, police spokesperson for Gauteng province, told AFP. A manhunt for the suspects is ongoing, with no arrests announced so far.

Police Statement

“It is reported that about 12 unknown suspects in a white kombi and a silver sedan opened fire at tavern patrons and continued to shoot randomly as they fled the scene,” the police said in a statement.

“The tavern is licensed,” it added. “We are still busy obtaining statements. Our national crime and management team has arrived,” SABC reported, quoting Fred Kekana, acting police commissioner of Gauteng.

“The provincial crime scene management team has arrived, and a team from the local criminal record centre is here, so is our serious crime investigating team, crime intelligence and the provincial crime detective team is on scene,” he added.

Part of a Broader Pattern of Violence

The Bekkersdal shooting follows another deadly incident earlier this month, when gunmen stormed a hostel in Saulsville township near Pretoria, killing 12 people, including a three-year-old child. That attack was linked to an unlicensed tavern.

South Africa continues to struggle with high levels of violent crime, driven by organised criminal groups, gang activity, and disputes linked to informal businesses. Police data shows that an average of more than 60 people are killed daily nationwide, placing the country among those with the highest murder rates globally.

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