Johannesburg (Rajeev Sharma): At least 27 people were killed and 26 others injured in two separate shooting incidents at entertainment venues in South Africa overnight, with police launching investigations and a search for multiple suspects.
The deadliest attack took place in Wedela township, west of Johannesburg, where armed men opened fire inside a bar on Saturday night. Police said 17 people were killed and another 15 sustained injuries.
The attackers reportedly arrived carrying assault rifles and pistols before searching some customers and taking their mobile phones. They then escaped in two unidentified vehicles, according to police.
Gauteng authorities said a manhunt has been launched for eight unidentified suspects. The motive behind the attack has not yet been established, and investigators are working to determine what led to the shooting.
Emergency responders declared all 17 victims dead at the scene. The incident was reported at around 9:30 p.m. local time on Saturday.
Ten Killed in Western Cape Attack
A second shooting occurred hours later in Lwandle township in Cape Town, Western Cape. Police said 10 people were killed and 11 others injured when gunmen opened fire at an entertainment venue.
Five victims died at the location, while five others later succumbed to their injuries after being taken to hospital, authorities said. The shooting was reported at approximately 1:46 a.m. Sunday.
Police are investigating both incidents and have yet to establish whether the two attacks were connected. The latest violence has again raised concerns over shootings at public entertainment venues in South Africa, while investigators continue efforts to identify those responsible.
