Police are hunting for more than 10 suspects following a mass shooting that left 12 people dead and nine others wounded at an informal settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg, on Tuesday night.

The attackers arrived in a white Toyota Quantum minibus at Jumpers Informal Settlement at 23:10, entering through both entrances before opening fire on residents at multiple locations.

Eight adult men and three women died on the scene, while another male victim died later in hospital. Nine other victims were transported to various medical facilities for treatment of gunshot wounds.

Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said officers responded to reports of a shooting in progress at the informal settlement.

“Upon arrival, police found numerous victims who had sustained gunshot wounds. Emergency Medical Services were immediately summoned to the scene to assist the injured,” Sibeko said.

According to preliminary investigations, the suspects were dropped off near a petrol station in Cleveland before moving through the informal settlement.

“The suspects allegedly entered the informal settlement through both entrances and moved through the area, opening fire on residents and community members at multiple locations before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle,” Sibeko explained.

Provincial and district detectives, supported by crime intelligence and forensic experts, have been mobilised to investigate the incident and track down the suspects.

The motive for the attack remains unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made.

Police have appealed to anyone with information to contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application.

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