GAUTENG cops have launched a massive manhunt.
This after a deadly shooting left 12 people dead and several others injured at the Jumpers Informal Settlement in Cleveland, east of Joburg.
The attack happened on Tuesday night, 9 June, when gunmen allegedly stormed the settlement and opened fire at multiple locations before disappearing from the scene.
Cops rushed to the area after receiving reports of a shooting in progress shortly after 11pm.
By the time officers arrived, several victims had already succumbed to their injuries, while others were found wounded and in need of urgent medical attention.
At least nine people were rushed to various medical facilities for treatment after sustaining gunshot wounds during the attack.
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Police spokeswoman Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said preliminary investigations have revealed that 12 people lost their lives.
"Preliminary investigations reveal that 12 people died as a result of the attack. Eight adult males and three adult females were declared dead at the scene, while one additional male victim later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. At least nine other victims were transported to various medical facilities for treatment of gunshot wounds," she said.
Investigators believe the suspects arrived in the area shortly before the massacre.
"It is alleged that more than 10 suspects were dropped off by a white Toyota Quantum near a petrol station in Cleveland. 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," added Nevhuhulwi.
Provincial and district detectives, crime intelligence operatives and forensic experts have been deployed to investigate the killings and track down those responsible.
The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and no arrests had been made at the time of publication.
Police have appealed to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward as the hunt for the suspects intensifies.
This is a developing story. . .
