At Least 9 Dead, 10 Others Injured After Late-Night Mass Shooting at a Bar, Police Searching for Multiple Suspects

At least nine people were killed and 10 others injured in a mass shooting in South Africa early Sunday, Dec. 21, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS).

SAPS said the attack happened shortly before 1 a.m. local time, when gunmen in two vehicles began to “shoot randomly” toward patrons at a licensed bar in Johannesburg. SAPS spokesperson Brig. Athlenda identified the location as KwaNoxolo Tavern in the Tambo section of Bekkersdal, per The South African Times. Authorities said an estimated 12 suspects were involved and fled in a white Kombi and a silver sedan.

Police confirmed nine fatalities. News24 reported that five victims were inside the tavern, three were outside on the street, and another was a pedestrian in the area. At least 10 others were taken to a hospital with injuries.

“The police have mobilized all the necessary resources, including Forensic Crime Scene Management and Crime Intelligence,” SAPS said on Facebook, adding that investigators are still working to determine a motive.

As the search for the shooters continued, deputy provincial police commissioner Maj-Gen Fred Kekana described the attack as “unprovoked,” according to the BBC. He said the suspects were armed with pistols and an AK-47. He also noted that a taxi driver who had dropped off a passenger in the area was among those killed.

The shooting follows another incident earlier this month. On Dec. 6, three gunmen reportedly opened fire “randomly” at a hostel bar in South Africa. Ten people died at the scene and two others later died in the hospital. Reports citing SAPS said minors were among the victims, including a 3-year-old boy, a 12-year-old boy, and a 16-year-old girl.

SAPS urged anyone with information about the Dec. 21 attack to contact SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or submit tip-offs through the MySAPS App.