At least 12 people have been killed and nine others wounded following a mass shooting at the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg.
Police said officers responded to reports of gunfire at about 11:10pm on Tuesday night and arrived to find multiple victims with gunshot wounds across the settlement.
Eight men and three women were declared dead at the scene, while another male victim later died in hospital, bringing the total death toll to 12. At least nine injured victims were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
According to preliminary reports, more than 10 heavily armed men allegedly arrived in a white Toyota Quantum shortly after 8pm. The attackers are said to have moved through different parts of the settlement, opening fire on residents before fleeing in the same vehicle.
A resident who spoke to eNCA described hearing sustained gunfire for over an hour, saying he hid in a toilet during the attack.
Community members say violence in the area has been escalating, with reports of previous killings, including the alleged shooting of a community leader last month.
Some residents suspect the attack may be linked to ongoing tensions over illegal mining activities, though police have not yet confirmed a motive.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing as security operations continue in the area to track down those responsible for the attack.