South Africa Shooting: 12 Dead at Illegal Bar in Pretoria
At least 12 people, including a three-year-old child, were killed in a mass shooting at an illegal bar in the Saulsville township of Pretoria, South Africa, early Saturday morning. Police report that several others were wounded in the attack.
Details of the Incident
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stated that 25 people were shot in total. Of those, 10 died at the scene, two died in the hospital, and one more succumbed to injuries later on Saturday. The victims included a 12-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl.
- The shooting occurred around 4:30 am.
- Three gunmen entered the "illegal shebeen" and fired indiscriminately at a group of men.
Police Investigation
Police were alerted to the incident around 6:00 am. The motive for the shooting is currently unknown, and no arrests have been made. A manhunt is underway for the unidentified suspects, according to Reuters.
Concerns Over Illegal Liquor Premises
Brigadier Mathe highlighted the problem of illegal and unlicensed liquor premises, noting that many mass shootings occur at such locations. "We are having a serious challenge when it comes to these illegal and unlicensed liquor premises," she said. "Innocent people also get caught up in the crossfire."
South Africa's Crime Problem
South Africa is grappling with high crime rates and shootings, often linked to gang violence and alcohol-fuelled disputes. According to police data, approximately 63 people are killed each day in South Africa.
Recent Mass Shootings in South Africa
This shooting is the latest in a string of mass shootings that have occurred in South Africa in recent months. Some notable incidents include:
- October: Two teenagers killed and five others wounded in a gang-related shooting in Johannesburg.
- May: Gunmen killed eight customers at a tavern in Durban.
- Last Year: 18 relatives were shot dead at a homestead in the Eastern Cape.
