Police Launch Manhunt Following Fatal Shooting
Authorities in South Africa have initiated a search operation after a violent incident at a tavern in Bekkersdal, a township close to Johannesburg. The attack resulted in nine individuals losing their lives and left ten others wounded.
According to police reports, around twelve unidentified assailants arrived in two vehicles. They opened fire on patrons inside the establishment and continued shooting indiscriminately as they made their escape. The shooting occurred at approximately 01:00 local time on Sunday, which corresponds to 23:00 GMT on Saturday.
Officials confirmed that the tavern was operating with a valid license at the time of the incident.
Context of Violence in South Africa
This tragic event adds to the concerning statistics of violent crime in the country. South Africa is reported to have one of the world's highest homicide rates, with recent UN data indicating approximately 45 murders per 100,000 people.
This shooting follows another recent violent episode earlier in the month, where at least eleven people, including a child, were killed in a shooting at a hostel near Pretoria.
