South African police have launched a manhunt after 17 people were killed and 15 others wounded in a shooting at a tavern in Wedela township, southwest of Johannesburg.
The deadly incident occurred at around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday in Gauteng province, according to the South African Police Service.
Emergency medical personnel who responded to the scene declared 13 males and four females dead, while 15 other people sustained injuries and were taken for medical treatment.
Police said the motive for the shooting remains unknown as investigations continue.
According to the South African Police Service, the suspects were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols when they opened fire at the tavern before fleeing the scene.
Authorities have launched a manhunt for those responsible, while detectives continue working to establish exactly what led to the attack and identify the suspects involved.
The shooting has left the Wedela community mourning the loss of 17 lives, with police expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
Authorities are appealing for information that could assist in identifying and locating the suspects. Anyone with relevant information is urged to report it to the police.
