**BREAKING: 9 Killed in South Africa Tavern Mass Shooting**
URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking incident, at least nine people were killed early this morning when a group of assailants opened fire at the KWA Noxolo tavern in Bekkersdal township, approximately 25 miles west of Johannesburg. The attack occurred just before 1 a.m., according to local police officials.
Witnesses reported that as many as 12 assailants, armed with multiple pistols and at least one AK-47-style assault rifle, stormed the tavern. They arrived in two vehicles—a white van and a silver sedan—before unleashing a barrage of gunfire on unsuspecting patrons inside, as confirmed by Brenda Muridili of the South African Police Service.
Fred Kekana, the police commissioner of Gauteng province, stated that the gunmen first shot three individuals inside the tavern before continuing their attack outside, where they fatally shot an additional six victims, including a passing motorist. In total, at least 10 others sustained injuries during the chaos.
Authorities have not yet determined the motive behind this brutal assault. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the shooters searched the bodies of the dead and injured, stealing valuables such as cellphones, further aggravating the horrific nature of the crime.
The KWA Noxolo tavern is a popular shebeen, a type of informal licensed bar frequented by locals in townships. This incident marks a significant escalation in violence in the region, raising urgent questions about public safety.
As police continue their investigation, they urge anyone with information to come forward. The community is left in shock as families mourn the loss of their loved ones in this tragic event.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing situation.
