12 people were confirmed dead, and nine individuals were left injured after gunmen opened fire at an informal colony in the South African suburb of Cleveland, near Johannesburg, on Tuesday.
The police informed in a statement on Wednesday that a manhunt has been launched for the 10 suspects involved in the attack on the Jumpers informal settlement, but the motive behind the attack remains unknown, Hindustan Times reported.
Informal settlements like the Jumpers colony are unplanned residential areas in South Africa, which comprise shacks or other makeshift shelters.
What is known about the shooting?
Reuters reported that the suspects arrived at the said location aboard a large vehicle. They reportedly entered the settlement from two points and fled after firing at multiple spots, the police said.
Eight men and three women were found dead on the spot as police officials discovered several residents with multiple gunshot wounds. One person succumbed to his injuries after being brought to a hospital, Sky News reported. Nine injured individuals were taken in for treatment.
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Mass shooting menace in South Africa
Murder rates are sky-high in South Africa, with about 60 people being killed each day, one of the highest on earth. Several mass shootings took place in the country in recent times. That includes two such incidents in December 2025, which claimed the lives of 20 individuals in total.
Illegal mining gangs are often involved in the shootings, and the area of Cleveland is known to be linked to these unlawful activities, HT reported.
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FAQs:
1. Where did the mass shooting take place?
The attack occurred at the Jumpers informal settlement in Cleveland, near Johannesburg.
2. Have the suspects been arrested?
No, police are searching for 10 suspects believed to be involved in the shooting
