By Motshwari Mofokeng
Two people were killed and six others wounded in a late-night mass shooting in Eldorado Park, Johannesburg, sparking renewed concern over persistent violence in the area despite the recent deployment of soldiers.
The attack occurred around 10.30pm on Saturday when a group of about eight armed men allegedly stormed a yard where residents had gathered socially and opened fire indiscriminately before fleeing on foot.
Police spokesperson Brenda Muridili confirmed that two victims were declared dead at the scene, while six others were rushed to nearby hospitals with gunshot wounds.
“No suspects have been arrested yet and the motive for the shooting is still unknown,” Muridili said, adding that police have launched a manhunt for the suspects.
The incident comes just days after the South African National Defence Force deployed soldiers and armoured vehicles to Eldorado Park as part of a wider security operation targeting illegal mining syndicates and violent gangs in Gauteng and other provinces.
Residents say the shooting raises troubling questions about whether the military presence is effectively deterring organised crime in the community.
Community leaders have also called for increased police patrols and intelligence-driven operations, arguing that criminal groups appear to be operating with confidence despite heightened security measures.
Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stop as investigations continue.
