June 10 (THEWILL) — Twelve people were killed and at least nine others injured after a group of heavily gunmen launched a deadly nighttime rampage through the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, east of Johannesburg, late Tuesday, triggering a massive police manhunt for the attackers.
The attack occurred at about 11:10 p.m. when more than 10 armed suspects reportedly stormed the settlement and opened fire on residents at multiple locations before fleeing the scene in a white Toyota Quantum minibus, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Police officers responding to reports of gunfire found numerous victims with gunshot wounds across the settlement.
Emergency medical personnel were immediately deployed to the area, where eight adult men and three adult women were pronounced dead at the scene. Another male victim later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital, bringing the death toll to 12.
At least nine other victims sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to various medical facilities for treatment.
Preliminary investigations suggest the attack was coordinated and carefully executed.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, SAPS said the suspects were dropped off near a petrol station in Cleveland before advancing into the settlement through different entry points.
“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, opening fire on residents and community members at multiple locations before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle,” the statement said.
Authorities believe the gunmen deliberately targeted residents in different sections of the densely populated settlement before escaping.
Provincial and district detectives, supported by crime intelligence operatives and forensic experts, have since launched an intensive investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Police said the motive behind the attack remains unknown.
“The motive for the attack is currently unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made at this stage,” SAPS added.
While investigators have yet to establish what prompted the attack, authorities said all possible motives are being explored.
Police have appealed to members of the public with information that could assist in locating the suspects or the getaway vehicle to come forward as the manhunt continues.
The identities of the victims have not been released pending notification of their families.
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