12 people killed and nine injured in Johannesburg shootout

At least 12 people were killed, and nine were injured on Tuesday evening when gunmen opened fire at an informal settlement in Cleveland, east of Johannesburg.

Police said in a statement that they had launched a manhunt for more than 10 suspects following the attack at the Jumpers informal settlement.

“It is reported that at approximately 23:10, members of the SAPS responded to a complaint of a shooting in progress at the informal settlement,” the police said.

Upon arrival, police found numerous victims who had sustained gunshot wounds. Emergency Medical Services were summoned to assist the injured.

“Preliminary investigations reveal that 12 people died as a result of the attack. Eight adult males and three adult females were declared dead at the scene. One male later died,” it said.

“At least nine other victims were transported to various medical facilities for treatment of gunshot wounds.”

It is alleged that more than 10 suspects were dropped off by a white Toyota Quantum near a petrol station in Cleveland.

The suspects allegedly entered the informal settlement through both entrances and moved through the area.

They opened fire on residents and community members at multiple locations before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle.

Provincial and district detectives, supported by crime intelligence and forensic experts, have been mobilised to investigate the incident and track down the suspects.

The motive for the attack is currently unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made at this stage.