12 Killed In Deadly Cleveland Informal Settlement Mass Shooting As Police Hunt Gunmen

Twelve people have been killed and several others injured after gunmen stormed the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, Johannesburg, in what is believed to be one of the deadliest mass shootings in Gauteng this year.

Police were called to the settlement shortly after 11pm on Tuesday following reports of multiple shots being fired. When officers arrived, they found victims lying at different locations throughout the community, many suffering from gunshot wounds.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, but for some victims help arrived too late. Eleven people were declared dead at the settlement, while a twelfth victim later succumbed to injuries in hospital.

Cleveland Mass Shooting Leaves Community Reeling

According to preliminary information from investigators, the victims include eight men and three women who died at the scene. Another male victim later died after being transported to hospital.

At least nine other people survived the attack and were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

Residents were left traumatised as police and emergency personnel worked through the night, securing the area and assisting the wounded.

Police Search For More Than 10 Suspects

Investigators believe the attackers arrived in a white Toyota Quantum before carrying out the deadly assault.

Police allege that more than 10 armed suspects were dropped off near a petrol station before entering the informal settlement through different access points. The group is believed to have moved through the area, opening fire at several locations before fleeing in the same vehicle.

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At this stage, authorities have not established a motive for the killings and no arrests have been made.

Provincial and district detectives, together with crime intelligence operatives and forensic specialists, have been assigned to the investigation as efforts continue to identify and locate those responsible.

Police are urging anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit tips anonymously through the MySAPS mobile application.