Two separate mass shootings in South Africa have left 27 people dead and 26 others wounded, with police investigating both attacks.
The first shooting occurred at a tavern in Wedela, southwest of Johannesburg, where eight armed suspects reportedly attacked patrons on Saturday night.
Police said 17 people were killed and 15 others injured.
17 killed at Johannesburg-area tavern
Police said the attackers first opened fire on people outside the tavern before entering the building and continuing the assault.
The victims included 13 men and four women.
The suspects allegedly searched some patrons and stole their mobile phones before escaping in two unidentified vehicles.
Police said two vehicles were also set ablaze.
The attackers remain unidentified, and the motive for the shooting is still unknown.
Another 10 killed near Cape Town
Hours later, another deadly shooting was reported at an entertainment venue in Lwandle, a township outside Cape Town.
Police said 10 people died and 11 others were injured.
Five victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while five others later died in medical facilities. The remaining 11 injured victims were receiving treatment.
Authorities have established a multidisciplinary investigative team led by serious and violent crime detectives.
No arrests had been reported in connection with the Lwandle attack at the time of the latest reports.
Manhunt underway
South African police have launched a major investigation into the Wedela shooting and are searching for the eight suspects.
The authorities have not publicly established whether either attack was connected to organised crime, gang rivalry or another motive.
The motive in the Wedela shooting remains under investigation.
Country continues to battle violent crime
South Africa has continued to experience high levels of violent crime, with firearms frequently involved in deadly attacks.
Recent mass shootings in different parts of the country have renewed concerns about illegal guns, gang-related violence and security in entertainment venues.
The latest incidents come just days after another mass shooting in KwaMakhutha, near Durban, where 11 people were killed and three wounded at a house party.
