Twelve people have been killed and nine others wounded following a mass shooting at Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg. The incident occurred late Tuesday night, with police responding to reports of gunfire at approximately 11:10 p.m.
Details of the Attack
Upon arrival, officers discovered numerous individuals with multiple gunshot wounds. Eight men and three women were declared dead at the scene, while a male victim later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. At least nine other people were transported to various medical facilities for treatment.
According to reports, more than ten heavily armed men were dropped off by a white Toyota Quantum just after 8 p.m. They allegedly entered the informal settlement and opened fire on residents at multiple locations before fleeing in the same vehicle.
Resident Accounts
A resident who spoke to eNCA described hiding in a toilet as the sound of gunfire rang out for over an hour. The resident noted that shootings in the area have become increasingly common, adding that a community leader was shot dead last month.
A community leader, who hesitated to speak out of fear for her own safety, suggested the attack may be linked to an illegal mining turf war. "This place is very dangerous. I don't want to say anything because tomorrow, you might find it will be me. It's really painful that people were killed like dogs," she said.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are investigating the incident and have not yet made any arrests. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward as they work to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
