A tragic mass shooting in Umlazi has left eight people dead after gunmen opened fire at a local tavern on Friday night. The horrifying incident unfolded in the U-Section of the Durban township, sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a major police investigation.
Emergency responders and law enforcement officials rushed to the scene shortly after reports of gunfire were received. According to early accounts, the victims were found outside the premises of the tavern, lying motionless in a narrow passage adjacent to the building.
ALS Paramedics spokesperson Gareth Jamieson confirmed that paramedics arrived to find the South African Police Service (SAPS) already on-site and the area cordoned off to secure the crime scene. “Paramedics arrived on scene to find SAPS already in attendance with the area cordoned off, and were shown to a side passage near what is believed to be a tavern, where the eight people were found on the floor,” said Jamieson.
He added that the victims had all sustained multiple gunshot wounds and were declared deceased at the scene. “Six males and two females were declared deceased on the scene due to the multiple gunshot wounds they had sustained. At this stage, the events leading up to the shooting are unknown. However, SAPS had cornered off the entire area and will be investigating further,” Jamieson stated.
The Umlazi community has been left stunned by the incident, which is among the deadliest mass shootings reported in the area in recent years. Residents expressed both fear and anger, calling for increased police presence and urgent action to address gun violence, especially in public spaces like taverns that serve as community gathering points.
Umlazi Community Reels After Tavern Mass Shooting Claims Eight Lives
Eyewitnesses said they heard a barrage of gunshots late on Friday evening, followed by the sound of screaming. Some local residents tried to offer assistance before authorities arrived, but it quickly became apparent that several victims had already succumbed to their injuries.
One resident, who asked not to be named, described the scene as “like a war zone” and said the shooting had left people terrified to go out at night. “We live in fear now. These kinds of things are happening too often. It’s heartbreaking to know people just went out to relax, and they never came back home,” the resident said.
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The SAPS has launched a full-scale investigation into the Umlazi mass shooting, with crime scene experts gathering forensic evidence and interviewing potential witnesses. While the motive for the attack remains unclear, police say they are pursuing several leads.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said that detectives are working around the clock to uncover the circumstances surrounding the massacre. He called on anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing those responsible to justice.
“No arrests have been made at this stage, but we can confirm that a team of investigators has been deployed and is working diligently. We urge members of the public who may have seen or heard anything to report it to their nearest police station or use our Crime Stop number. We are determined to ensure those responsible face the full might of the law,” Netshiunda said.
Community Demands Action
The mass shooting in Umlazi has reignited debate over public safety and the regulation of firearms in South Africa. Community leaders and activists have called on government officials to prioritize the fight against violent crime and to ensure law enforcement agencies are better equipped to prevent such tragedies.
Local councillor Zanele Mthethwa said urgent steps are needed to protect residents and restore faith in the justice system. “Umlazi cannot continue to be a killing field. We need better policing, more visible patrols, and we need communities and police to work together to root out crime,” Mthethwa said.
She added that the senseless killing of innocent people enjoying a night out highlights deeper issues around crime prevention, youth violence, and the availability of illegal firearms.
The latest mass shooting underscores the broader security challenges faced in Umlazi and other high-crime areas across South Africa. With violent crime, including mass shootings and gang-related violence, on the rise, residents are increasingly fearful for their safety.
As investigations continue, families of the victims are left mourning the loss of their loved ones while the wider Umlazi community demands justice and meaningful change. Police have vowed to pursue all leads and ensure that those responsible for the brutal attack are held accountable.
The tragedy stands as a grim reminder of the urgent need to address gun violence and strengthen community safety in Umlazi and beyond.
Source- EWN