South African police have launched a manhunt for gunmen after two separate mass shootings in Gauteng and Western Cape provinces left at least 27 people dead and 26 others wounded.
The attacks occurred at entertainment venues in the two provinces, with police yet to establish a motive or announce any arrests.
In Gauteng, 17 people were killed and 15 others wounded when gunmen opened fire at a tavern in Wedela township, southwest of Johannesburg, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.
The shooting occurred at about 9:30 p.m., with emergency medical personnel finding 13 men and four women dead at the scene.
Police said the attackers were allegedly armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols. They reportedly opened fire on customers gathered outside the tavern before entering the premises and continuing the attack.
The 15 injured victims were taken to medical facilities for treatment.
No arrests had been made, while investigators continued efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.
In a separate attack in the Western Cape, 10 people were killed and 11 others wounded in an early-morning shooting at an entertainment venue in Lwandle, a township outside Cape Town.
Police said the gunmen entered the venue at about 1:46 a.m. and opened fire on patrons.
Five victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while additional fatalities were recorded as emergency responders and investigators continued their work.
Police have not disclosed a possible motive for either shooting and have not indicated whether the two attacks were connected.
The latest incidents have renewed concerns over gun violence in South Africa, where taverns and other entertainment venues have previously been targeted in mass shootings.
Investigators are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding both attacks, identify those responsible and determine whether there was any link between the incidents.
