Nine Killed in South Africa Bar Shooting, Second Such Attack This Month

Summary:

Nine people were killed and ten more were wounded when gunmen opened fire at a bar in Bekkersdal, South Africa, early Sunday. This is the second such shooting in South Africa this month. The attackers were armed with pistols and one had an AK-47 rifle and fled the scene with valuables after the shooting. Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects.

What This Means for You:

• Be aware of the increase in organized crime and gun violence in South Africa.
• Take precautions when visiting bars and public places in high crime areas.
• Support efforts to end gun violence and strengthen law enforcement in South Africa.
• Stay informed about updates on the manhunt for the suspects and the progress of the investigation.

Original Post:

Nine people were killed when gunmen opened fire at a bar outside Johannesburg early Sunday, police said, in the second such shooting in South Africa this month.

Ten more were wounded in the early morning attack at the tavern in the impoverished Bekkersdal township in a gold mining area around 40 kilometres southwest of the city.

It follows a shooting at a tavern near Pretoria on 6 December when gunmen killed a dozen people, including a three‑year‑old child.

Police initially said 10 people were killed when the Bekkersdal bar was attacked just before 1am local time, but later revised the toll downwards.

Most of the attackers were armed with pistols and one had an AK-47 rifle, deputy provincial police commissioner major general Fred Kekana told SABC television from the scene.

“They entered the tavern and randomly shot at the patrons, unprovoked,” he said.

Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects, the South African Police Service said. Source: AP / Alfonso Nqunjana

Three people were killed inside the bar and others as they fled the scene, with the attackers continuing to shoot as they left, he said.

“It’s also reported that after they shot the people, they searched them. They took their valuables, including cell phones,” Kekana said.

The dead included a driver from an online car-hailing service who was driving past.

“It’s pure criminality,” Kekana said. Police launched a manhunt for the attackers and appealed for public assistance.

Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects, the South African Police Service said.

South Africa sees surge in organised crime

South Africa, the continent’s most industrialised nation, is grappling with a high crime rate, much of it driven by organised networks and gangs.

The country is awash with legal and illegal firearms and shootings are common, often fuelled by gang rivalry and competition between informal businesses.

The tavern hit in the Pretoria attack earlier this month was an unlicensed outlet in a hostel for migrant workers at Saulsville township.

The dead included children aged three, 12 and 16.

Extra Information:

For more information on the high crime rate and organized crime in South Africa, see the following resources:

• South African Police Service Crime Prevention
• South African Crime Statistics

People Also Ask About:

• What is the current state of crime in South Africa? South Africa is experiencing a high crime rate, much of it driven by organized networks and gangs. Shootings are common and there is a shortage of police officers.
• How many people are killed in South Africa each day? According to police data, an average of 63 people are killed each day in South Africa between April and September.
• What is driving the high crime rate in South Africa? The high crime rate in South Africa is driven by a number of factors, including poverty, unemployment, and a lack of opportunities for young people, as well as a shortage of police officers and a culture of violence. Organized crime and gang activity are also significant factors.
• How is the government addressing the issue of crime in South Africa? The South African government is working to address the issue of crime through various measures, including increasing the number of police officers, investing in crime prevention programs, and addressing the root causes of crime through social and economic development initiatives.

Expert Opinion:

“The high crime rate in South Africa is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and coordinated response from government, civil society, and communities. It is crucial that all stakeholders work together to address the root causes of crime and create a safe and secure environment for all South Africans.”

Key Terms:

• South Africa
• Crime
• Organized crime
• Gangs
• Shootings
• Police
• Crime prevention
• Violence
• Social and economic development
• Safety and security

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