South Africa police have launched a manhunt after 17 people were killed and 15 others wounded when gunmen opened fire at a tavern in Wedela township, southwest of Johannesburg.
The shooting happened at about 9:30 p.m. on Saturday in Gauteng province, according to the South African Police Service. Emergency medical personnel declared 13 men and four women dead at the scene. Fifteen other people sustained gunshot wounds and were taken to medical facilities for treatment.
Police said the attackers were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols. The suspects allegedly began shooting at people outside the tavern before entering the premises and continuing the attack inside.
No arrests had been made when police issued their statement on Sunday, and the motive for the shooting remained unknown.
The incident has prompted a police investigation and search for those responsible. Authorities have not yet identified any suspects or provided further details about what may have led to the attack.
The shooting adds to a long-running pattern of deadly gun violence in South Africa, where taverns and other informal social venues have previously been the scenes of fatal attacks. In this case, however, police have not established a motive and further details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.
The deaths in Wedela have left 17 people dead and 15 injured, while police continue to search for the suspected attackers.
