South African police are continuing a manhunt after two separate mass shootings near Johannesburg and Cape Town left at least 27 people dead within a few hours. The incidents occurred late Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

18 Dead in Latest Johannesburg Toll

The first shooting took place at a tavern in Wedela township, about 80 kilometres southwest of Johannesburg.

Police initially reported that 17 people had been killed and 15 injured after several armed attackers opened fire on patrons inside and outside the venue. By September 28, the death toll had risen to 18 after another victim died in hospital.

Police said the attackers were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols. They allegedly searched some patrons and took mobile phones before fleeing in two vehicles. Two vehicles were also set alight outside the tavern.

10 Killed Near Cape Town

Several hours later, another shooting occurred in Lwandle, on the outskirts of Cape Town.

Police said gunmen opened fire at an entertainment venue selling grilled meat at around 1:46–2:00 a.m. At least 10 people were killed and 11 others injured in the attack.

No arrests had been announced in either case in the latest reports.

Motives Still Under Investigation

South African authorities have not established a definitive motive for either attack.

Investigators are examining possible links to organised crime and gang activity. In the Wedela case, authorities have also been investigating a possible illegal-mining turf dispute, but this remains an investigative line rather than an established conclusion.

The two shootings have not been confirmed as connected.

Growing Concern Over Gun Violence

The attacks came only days after another mass shooting near Durban, where at least 11 people were killed at a house party.

The latest incidents have renewed attention on illegal firearms, organised criminal networks and violent crime in South Africa. Authorities have previously deployed soldiers alongside police in some high-crime areas as part of efforts to tackle organised crime.

Investigation Continues

Specialised police units and detectives are searching for the suspects and gathering evidence from both crime scenes.

Authorities are also examining possible motives and connections among the people involved. Until the investigations produce further evidence, details about the attackers and the reasons behind the shootings remain unconfirmed.