At least 12 people were killed and nine others injured in a mass shooting at an informal settlement in Cleveland, east of Johannesburg, on Tuesday evening, prompting a large-scale manhunt by police for more than 10 suspects, authorities said on Wednesday. According to police, the attack occurred at the Jumpers informal settlement, where armed men opened fire at multiple locations within the community.

Officials confirmed that eight men and three women were pronounced dead at the scene, while another victim later died in hospital due to the severity of injuries, bringing the death toll to 12. The South African Police Service said in a statement that the attackers arrived in a white Toyota Quantum minibus and entered the settlement from two separate access points before opening fire indiscriminately.

After the assault, the suspects fled the scene in the same vehicle, police added, noting that a coordinated search operation has been launched. Police described the Jumpers informal settlement as an unplanned residential area made up largely of makeshift structures and shacks, typical of several such communities around Johannesburg.

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These areas often face high levels of poverty and limited infrastructure, and have previously been affected by sporadic violent crime incidents. Investigators said the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and a formal inquiry has been initiated to determine whether the attack was targeted or random. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities and are currently gathering forensic evidence and witness statements from survivors and nearby residents.

Police have urged the public to assist with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects, warning that those involved are considered dangerous and may still be armed. The incident has added to growing concerns over violent crime in parts of South Africa’s urban informal settlements, where law enforcement operations are often challenged by difficult terrain and limited access.

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