Mongezi Koko14 October 2024 | 5:00

Gauteng police investigating murder of seven people in Orange Farm

The violence erupted after an argument between a tavern owner and a customer over closing times in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Gauteng police investigating murder of seven people in Orange Farm

Picture: X/SAPoliceService

JOHANNESBURG - Gauteng police are investigating the murder of seven people in Orange Farm.

The violence erupted after an argument between a tavern owner and a customer over closing times in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The business owner allegedly followed the man home and opened fire during a family gathering.

The incident has prompted calls for increased security in Orange Farm, with residents mourning the loss and urging stronger efforts to curb gun violence in informal settlements.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili explained: "Four people survived the shooting, but a one-year-old and a 31-year-old sustained injuries and are being treated in hospital. The suspect then returned to his home in Evaton and turned the gun on himself."

The tragedy follows a string of mass killings in KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape in recent weeks.