Johannesburg, Sep 27 (V7N)- At least 27 people have been killed and 26 others injured in two separate overnight shooting incidents in South Africa, with one attack occurring west of Johannesburg and another near Cape Town.

The first shooting took place at around 9:30pm local time on Saturday, September 26, in a tavern in the Wedela township, west of Johannesburg.

According to police, armed attackers entered the establishment and opened fire indiscriminately, killing 17 people and injuring 15 others.

Authorities said the attackers were armed with assault rifles and pistols. Before fleeing the scene, they allegedly searched several people inside the tavern and took their mobile phones.

The suspects then reportedly escaped in two unidentified vehicles.

Emergency responders who arrived after receiving reports of the shooting found all 17 victims dead at the scene.

Police in Gauteng province suspect that eight unidentified armed individuals were involved in the attack. A major operation has been launched to identify and arrest the suspects.

Authorities have not yet determined the motive behind the shooting. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Ten Killed Near Cape Town

Several hours later, another shooting occurred in the Western Cape province.

At approximately 1:46am on Sunday, September 27, gunmen opened fire at an entertainment venue in the Lwandle township near Cape Town.

Police said 10 people were killed and 11 others injured in the attack.

Five victims died at the scene, while another five later succumbed to their injuries after being taken to hospital.

Police have not yet released details about the number of suspects involved in the Cape Town-area shooting or established a possible motive.

The two incidents, which claimed the lives of 27 people within several hours, have renewed concerns over gun violence and public safety in South Africa.

Police operations and investigations are continuing in both locations as authorities work to identify and apprehend those responsible.

END/SMA/AJ