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At least nine people were killed and 10 injured in a shooting in Bekarsdal township, west of johannesburg In South Africa,
Officials said armed men traveling in two vehicles opened fire at a bar early in the morning and continued firing as they fled the scene.
Police said witnesses reported that at least nine suspects had pistols and one had an AK-47-style assault rifle.
Police have started searching for about 12 suspects who are believed to be involved in the attack.
Police said those killed included a driver who worked for a ride-hailing service.
Some victims were shot at random on the street outside Kwanoxolo Tavern, said police spokeswoman Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
The motive for the shooting is unclear, and authorities are still working to identify the victims.
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Police cited reports that ‘about 12’ unidentified suspects arrived in a white Kombi [van] and opened fire on a silver sedan and patrons.
“They continued firing randomly even while fleeing from the spot,” he said.
Authorities said the incident occurred “just before 1:00 a.m. local time” (11:00 p.m. GMT) in the Tambo municipality.
Police are now collecting statements of witnesses to help their investigation.
“We are still busy receiving statements. Our national crime and management team has arrived,” said Fred Kekana, acting commissioner of Gauteng province, where the crime occurred.
He said police were left with a “challenging and unfortunate situation”.
“When people were running out of the bar, they were shot,” he said.
“People were shot on the streets. Even cars.” [of the assailants] While leaving, he shot the other driver.”
At least 10 people were taken to hospital with injuries.
South AfricaThe public broadcaster, the SABC, initially reported that 10 people were killed, but later revised the death toll.
Independent The South African Police Service has been contacted for comment.
On 6 December, gunmen killed 12 people, including a three-year-old child, in a Pretoria hostel that allegedly sold alcohol illegally.