Multiple gunmen open fire in South Africa's Johannesburg, leaving 12 dead

At least 12 people were killed and nine others injured in a late-night mass shooting in the Cleveland suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa, on Tuesday. According to police, multiple attackers arrived in the area in a minibus and opened fire on residents at several locations before fleeing the scene. Eleven victims died at the scene, while another later succumbed to injuries in hospital.

Police said they believe more than 10 suspects were involved in the attack. The assailants were reportedly dropped off in an informal settlement in Cleveland and moved through the area while firing at residents and community members. After carrying out the shootings, the attackers left in the same vehicle used to reach the location.

The victims included nine men and three women. Emergency responders attended the scene following the incident, while the injured were transported to medical facilities for treatment. Authorities confirmed that at least nine people sustained injuries during the attack.

Police have launched an investigation and are searching for those responsible. No arrests had been made as of Wednesday, and investigators said the motive behind the shootings had not yet been established. Officials are examining all available evidence as part of the ongoing inquiry.

The attack occurred in an informal settlement, an area typically consisting of unplanned housing and makeshift structures. South Africa has witnessed several high-profile mass shootings in recent months, including two incidents in December that together claimed more than 20 lives. Cleveland is also known as an area associated with illegal mining activities, although police have not identified any link between those activities and the latest shooting.