At least eight suspects opened fire at a tavern in Wedela on Saturday night.
Picture: File / The Citizen
The South African Police Service (Saps) are searching for at least eight suspects wanted in connection with a mass shooting near Carletonville.
Police confirmed on Sunday morning that 13 males and four females were confirmed dead after the suspects opened fire at a tavern in Wedela at roughly 9.30pm on Saturday night.
The suspects were reportedly armed with AK-47s and handguns, and seriously injured a further 15 people.
“It is alleged that patrons were drinking inside and outside the tavern when the suspects arrived and opened fire on those outside.
“The suspects then entered the tavern and continued shooting at patrons inside,” stated Gauteng police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko.
Patrons robbed, vehicles set alight
Following the shooting spree, the suspects are alleged to have searched the patrons to remove their cellphones and other valuables.
The suspects then fled in two unidentified vehicles and torched two other vehicles that were parked near the tavern.
Emergency responders declared the 17 victims dead at the scene, before transporting the injured to hospital to receive medial treatment.
“The motive for the shooting is unknown at this stage. Gauteng police have mobilised a team of detectives and other 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,” Sibeko concluded.
‘Every life matters’
Floyd Shivambu’s Afrika Mayibuye Movement (AMM) were among the first groups to react to the horrific incident in Wedela.
The party extended its sympathies to the friends and family of the victims, calling for a deeper societal and systemic change.
“While arrests and ongoing investigations are necessary first steps, sporadic police responses are insufficient.
“Our communities urgently require proactive, sustained intervention strategies that prevent violent crime, ensure accountability, and restore public safety.
The party hoped for transparent investigations, swift prosecutions, targeted protection measures, strengthened community policing and root-cause interventions.
“Every life matters. The right to life must be fiercely protected, and justice must prevail,” AMM stated.
