A further 15 patrons were injured in West Rand mass shooting as eight gunmen opened fire with rifles and handguns.

Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for eight unidentified armed men following a deadly shooting at a tavern in Wedela Ext 3, in the West Rand District, last night (September 26), reports the Carletonville Herald.

According to Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, Gauteng SAPS spokesperson, patrons were drinking inside and outside the tavern when the suspects allegedly arrived and opened fire on those outside.

The suspects then allegedly entered the tavern and continued shooting at patrons inside.

The suspects were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols. They allegedly searched some patrons and took their cellphones before fleeing the scene in two unidentified vehicles.

Two vehicles were also set alight during the incident.

A total of 17 people, comprising 13 men and four women, were shot and killed. Emergency Medical Services declared all 17 victims dead at the scene.

A further 15 people sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to medical facilities for treatment.

The motive for the shooting is unknown at this stage.

Gauteng police have mobilised a team of detectives and specialised units to trace and apprehend the suspects.

Police have opened 17 counts of murder, 15 counts of attempted murder and two counts of malicious damage to property.

No arrests have been made.

Investigations are ongoing.

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