At least 14 killed in bar shooting in S. Africa’s Soweto

In this file photo dated May 5, 2022, members of a community patrol try to force their way into a house where drugs are allegedly sold in Pimville, Soweto. Daily community patrols have increased their presence in the area in the recent months due to rising crime, mostly drug related, in the community.
(GUILLEM SARTORIO / AFP)

CAPE TOWN – At least 14 people were killed and another nine are receiving treatment in hospital due to a random shooting early Sunday at a tavern in South Africa's Soweto township, close to Johannesburg, police said.

The incident happened in the early hours of Sunday morning in Soweto' Orlando township, said Elias Mawela, police commissioner of Gauteng province, which encompasses Johannesburg and other areas.

The assailants entered the bar and shot people randomly at 12:30 am local time (2230 GMT Saturday), said Mawela at the scene.

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He said twelve people died at the scene while two died in hospital, adding that three of the injured are "in critical condition." 

The victims are estimated to be 19 to 35 years of age.

Police are still investigating the incident.