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SA townships turning into ‘war zones’ after deadly weekend of violence: ACF

todaySeptember 28, 2026 13

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Image credit: SAPS

Activists and Citizens Forum (ACF) says South Africa’s townships are becoming “war zones” following a series of mass shootings in Gauteng and the Western Cape over the weekend.

More than 30 people have been killed, including 18 at a tavern in Carletonville and more than 10 at a shisanyama in Lwandle.

It is alleged that patrons were sitting inside and outside the tavern in Carletonville when unknown gunmen entered the premises armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols, before randomly opening fire.

Police say the suspects searched some patrons, took their cellphones and fled the scene in two unidentified vehicles. Two vehicles were also set alight during the attack.

Only four of the deceased have been identified, two South Africans and two Lesotho nationals, while all the injured victims receiving treatment in hospital have been identified.

Meanwhile, a 23-year-old woman was also gunned down in Thembisa on Monday, while on her way to work.

Authorities say her belongings were stolen before the suspects fled the scene.

Her family believes her fiancé may have been behind her killing.

The civic organisation alleges that a third force could be behind the attacks, saying stronger crime intelligence is needed to prevent further bloodshed.

ACF spokesperson, Dennis Bloem, is also calling for police to urgently track down those responsible.

“The Government must tighten border security controls to prevent the influx and smuggling of illegal firearms. It is a known fact that AK47 rifles are used in these massive shootings all over the country.”

Forum for South Africa (FOSA) has also weighed in on the matter, saying no community should have to live in fear of armed criminals who can enter a public establishment and open fire on innocent people.

The forum’s national leader, Tebogo Mashilompane, says such violence raises serious questions about public safety and the ability of law enforcement to protect communities from heavily armed criminals.

“We call on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that this investigation receives the necessary resources and urgency. Those responsible must be identified, arrested and brought before the courts.”

“South Africans cannot continue to live under the threat of violent criminals who show complete disregard for human life. The killing of 18 people in one night is a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen crime prevention, improve police visibility and ensure that criminal investigations lead to successful prosecutions.”

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Tommy Mthombeni, has established a dedicated multidisciplinary team to investigate the tavern shooting.

Mthombeni says the team comprises seasoned murder and robbery detectives, Crime Intelligence and Crime Scene Investigation members, and is led by a senior brigadier.

Written by: Lindiwe Mpanza

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