Gunmen have killed at least eleven people, including a three-year-old child, during a brutal early morning raid on a hostel in South Africa's capital, Pretoria.
Scene of Carnage in Early Hours
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed the devastating toll from the attack, which saw a total of 25 people shot. "Ten died on this particular scene, and one died in hospital," Mathe stated. The wounded victims, numbering fourteen, were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Among the dead were some of the community's youngest members. The victims included a three-year-old child, a 12-year-old boy, and a 16-year-old girl, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence.
Police Link Violence to Illegal Drinking Dens
South African authorities pointed to a recurring problem in the area as a likely context for the bloodshed: violence connected to illicit bars, locally known as shebeens. These unlicensed establishments often sell substandard, homebrewed alcohol.
"What I can tell you is that these illegal shebeens are really giving us a problem as the police," Mathe told the eNCA news broadcaster. "Because a lot of murders are being reported at these illegal establishments."
Manhunt Launched for Suspects
In the aftermath, the scene was cordoned off for a detailed forensic investigation. Ballistic experts joined detectives to gather evidence from the hostel.
Authorities have now initiated a urgent search for those responsible. "So we are on a manhunt. For now, we are looking for three suspects," Mathe announced, as the investigation continues to develop.
