South Africa: Shooting at a tavern in Soweto, Johannesburg, early July 10; multiple casualties

Event

An unidentified assailant shot and killed 14 people and injured nine others at a tavern in Nomzamo Park in Soweto, Johannesburg, at approximately 00:30 July 10. The casualty numbers may be adjusted in the coming hours. The attacker fled the scene following the attack. There is no ongoing threat in the area. Police have deployed to Nomzamo Park and are investigating. The motive for the attack is unclear.

Nomzamo Park is located approximately 16 km (10 miles) west of downtown Johannesburg.

Context

Violent crime is a nationwide threat in South Africa. In addition to the Nomzamo Park incident, at least four people were killed at a tavern in Pietermartizburg, KwaZulu-Natal Province late July 9. The threat of violent crime is particularly high in informal settlements near major urban centers. The country has one of the highest murder rates in the world. In June, officials released crime statistics for the first three months of 2022. Data indicated that murder had increased 22.2 percent compared with the same period last year, with 6,083 people killed from January to March. Police indicated that disputes, vigilantism, revenge/retaliation, and robberies were the top causative factors.

Advice

Exercise caution in high crime threat locations. Liaise with trusted contacts for updates before travel. Consider avoiding unnecessary travel at night. Ensure that personal safety, travel and residential/business office security measures are regularly reviewed.