Five men were shot dead in a brazen daylight attack outside a tuck shop in Jeffsville, Atteridgeville, on Wednesday, deepening concerns about a recent surge in violent crime in the area.

According to Gauteng police, the shooting occurred at about 13:15 on 21 January 2026 at a tuck shop in Block JV. The victims, whose identities have not yet been released, were standing outside the shop when they were approached by an unknown number of suspects.

Police said the assailants opened fire without warning before fleeing the scene on foot. Paramedics later declared all five men dead at the scene.

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni said police have mobilised significant resources to track down those responsible. Multiple specialised units have been deployed, including the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Investigations unit, Forensic Crime Scene Management, Crime Intelligence and the Provincial Tracking Team.

“The scene is being thoroughly processed, and investigators are interviewing witnesses who may have seen the suspects or the direction in which they fled,” said Gauteng Provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili

She confirmed that a case of five counts of murder will be registered. Police said the motive for the attack remains unknown at this stage. Investigators have not ruled out any possibilities, including targeted killings or gang-related violence, as part of the probe.

Police appealed to the community to assist law enforcement with information that could lead to arrests. “We are urging anyone who may have information that can assist the investigation to come forward. Even the smallest detail could be crucial in helping us bring the perpetrators to justice,” said police.

Police added that they would increase visibility in Atteridgeville and surrounding areas to stabilise the situation and reassure residents. “The safety of our communities remains a priority, and we will not rest until those responsible for this senseless act are apprehended,” police said.

The shooting has left the Jeffsville community shaken, with residents expressing fear and frustration over recurring incidents of violent crime. Community leaders have renewed calls for sustained policing and closer cooperation between residents and law enforcement to curb the violence.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the nearest police station or call the SAPS Crime Stop number.