General News
Two separate shootings leave 27 dead in South African townships as police launch manhunt
JOHANNESBURG/CAPE TOWN — September 27, 2026: At least 27 people have been killed and 26 others wounded in two separate shootings in South African townships within a few hours of each other, according to police.
The attacks took place in Wedela, southwest of Johannesburg, and Lwandle, near Cape Town. No arrests had been announced as of Sunday, while investigators worked to identify those responsible.
South African police and investigators work at the scene of a deadly shooting in Lwandle near Cape Town as authorities investigate the latest outbreak of gun violence.
17 killed at Wedela tavern
The first attack happened at a tavern in Wedela township, about 80 kilometres southwest of Johannesburg, at around 9:30 p.m. Saturday.
South African police said eight suspected gunmen, reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols, opened fire on people outside the tavern before continuing the attack inside.
Seventeen people — 13 men and four women — were killed. Another 15 people suffered gunshot wounds and were taken to medical facilities.
Police said the suspects reportedly searched some patrons and took their mobile phones before fleeing in two vehicles. Two vehicles were also reportedly set alight.
The motive remains under investigation. Reuters reported that police were examining possible links to disputes involving illegal mining, although authorities had not established a definitive motive.
South Africa launches manhunt after 27 killed in separate township shootings
Ten killed near Cape Town
Hours later, another shooting occurred in Lwandle, on the outskirts of Cape Town.
Police said gunmen opened fire at an entertainment venue selling grilled meat at about 2 a.m. Sunday. Ten people were killed and another 11 were injured.
Five victims died at the scene, while five others later died from their injuries after being taken to medical facilities, according to police.
Detectives have been deployed to trace the perpetrators, but police had not announced any arrests at the time of reporting.
South Africa Township Shootings: 27 Killed in Wedela and Lwandle Attacks
Shootings add to recent violence
The latest attacks come only days after another mass shooting near Durban, where 11 people were killed at a house party, including a pregnant woman.
The incidents have again drawn attention to South Africa’s persistent problem with gun violence and organised crime. Reuters reported that authorities are investigating whether the latest shootings were connected to criminal disputes, but the motives have not been conclusively established.
Police investigations into both shootings are continuing.