In a tragic incident that has shaken an informal settlement near Johannesburg, at least 12 people lost their lives and nine others were wounded when armed attackers opened fire on Tuesday evening. Authorities in South Africa have mobilized a large-scale manhunt for more than 10 suspects believed to be involved in the assault.
The attack occurred in the Jumpers informal settlement in Cleveland, a suburb east of Johannesburg. Police reported that the gunmen arrived in a white Toyota Quantum minibus, entered the area through two separate access points, and fired indiscriminately at several locations before fleeing in the same vehicle. Officers arriving at the scene discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Eight men and three women were pronounced dead on site, while a twelfth victim—a man—later died in hospital. The injured were promptly transported for medical care.
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Investigators have not yet determined a motive for the shooting, though a formal probe is underway. Informal settlements like Jumpers typically consist of unplanned clusters of basic housing structures common in parts of South Africa.
This latest violence highlights the country’s persistent challenges with violent crime. South Africa records one of the highest murder rates globally, with an average of around 60 killings reported each day. Recent months have seen several notable mass shootings, including two incidents in December that together claimed more than 20 lives, one of which also involved coordinated attackers.
Some of these episodes have been connected to disputes involving illegal mining operations active in and around the Johannesburg region. Cleveland itself lies in an area known for such activities.
As the manhunt continues, local residents and officials await further updates on the investigation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the security concerns facing communities in the region. Police have urged anyone with information to come forward to assist in bringing those responsible to justice.