Residents of South African townships have called for stronger security measures following a series of deadly shootings that have heightened fear and insecurity in communities across the country.
In Wedela, southwest of Johannesburg, residents said shootings linked in the past to illegal mining gangs had become a persistent concern, but the latest attack has left the community traumatised.
At least 17 people were killed and several others injured when gunmen opened fire at a local bar in the township.
Local resident Siyabonga Nondabula said the scale of the latest attack was unprecedented in the community.
“There were some shootings in the past and, as they have said, Zama-Zama gangs. So now that it involves community members, and as a result of that over 17 people and even more have died, this has never happened here. So I feel very sad and traumatised,” he said.
Another resident, Victor Mangaliso, said the shooting left him deeply shaken after he heard gunfire while inside his home.
“We heard the shooting and now I’m left traumatised, especially since I have health issues of the heart. I wanted to go out of the house to go look for my daughter who was outside,” Mangaliso said.
He called on the authorities to strengthen security in the area, including deploying soldiers to support the police.
Police have deployed specialised units and soldiers to the area as investigators continue efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
No arrests had been announced in connection with the Wedela shooting.
The incident comes amid a series of deadly mass shootings in South Africa, renewing concerns over gang violence, illegal firearms and organised crime.
Residents in affected communities are demanding stronger protection and more effective security measures as authorities confront persistent violent crime across the country.
