The Gauteng police in South Africa have launched a manhunt for eight suspects who on Saturday killed 17 people drinking at a tavern, in West Rand District, and injured 15 other victims.

The police in a statement on X on Sunday said the suspects, armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols, dispossessed fun-seekers of their phones and torched two vehicles before they fled.

The police said, “Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for eight unidentified armed men following a deadly shooting at a tavern in Extension 3, Wedela, West Rand District, on Saturday, 26 September 2026, at approximately 21:30.

“It is alleged that patrons were drinking inside and outside the tavern when the suspects arrived and opened fire on those outside. The suspects then entered the tavern and continued shooting at patrons inside. 

“The suspects were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols. They allegedly searched some patrons and took their cellphones before fleeing the scene in two unidentified motor vehicles. Two vehicles were also set alight during the incident.

“A total of 17 people, comprising 13 males and four females, were shot and killed during the incident. Emergency Medical Services declared all 17 victims dead at the scene. Fifteen other victims sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to medical facilities for further medical treatment.”

According to the statement, the motive for the shooting has yet to be ascertained.

It noted thatthe Gauteng police mobilised a team of detectives and other specialised units to trace and apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Though no arrest has been made, the police stated that investigation was ongoing and opened 17 counts of murder, 15 counts of attempted murder and two counts of malicious damage to property.