Mirian Gom 
South Africa – At least 27 people have been killed and more than 20 others injured in two separate shootings in South African townships, with police launching investigations to track down the suspects.
The first attack occurred late on Saturday at a tavern in Wedela, southwest of Johannesburg, where 17 people were killed and 15 others wounded.
Police said the shooting began at about 9:30 p.m. in Extension 3, Wedela, in Gauteng province’s West Rand district.
According to authorities, gunmen opened fire on people gathered outside the tavern before entering the premises and continuing the attack. Some customers were reportedly searched and had their mobile phones taken.
The suspects later fled in two vehicles, while two other vehicles were set ablaze.
Police said eight suspects were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols. The motive for the attack remained unknown and no arrests had been announced.
Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said detectives and specialist police units had been deployed to identify and apprehend the suspects.
Police opened 17 murder cases, 15 attempted murder cases and two cases relating to property damage following the attack.
In a separate incident early on Sunday, 10 people were killed and 11 others wounded when gunmen opened fire at a store in Lwandle, near Cape Town. Police said multiple suspects were being sought in connection with the second shooting, which occurred after midnight.
The attacks came only days after 11 people, including a pregnant woman, were killed during a shooting at a house party near Durban.
South Africa continues to record high levels of violent crime, including firearm-related killings, prompting renewed concern over gun violence in communities.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
