JOHANNESBURG — Four Ethiopian nationals were shot and killed in two separate attacks in the Johannesburg CBD over the weekend, in what police are investigating as potentially targeted killings.
The first shooting happened on Saturday, 26 April 2026, at the corner of Rahima Moosa and Von Wielligh streets, where an Ethiopian business owner was gunned down.
Less than 48 hours later, a second deadly attack unfolded on Monday, 27 April 2026, at a McDonald’s outlet at the intersection of Rahima Moosa and Smal streets. Three Ethiopian men, believed to be between the ages of 30 and 45, were shot dead by two masked gunmen.
According to police, the suspects opened fire before fleeing the scene. All three victims were declared dead on site.
The two incidents, both involving Ethiopian nationals and occurring within close proximity of each other, have raised fears of a coordinated or targeted pattern, although the motive remains unclear.
Gauteng police have opened murder investigations into both shootings and are searching for the suspects.
Authorities are appealing to anyone with information that could assist investigations to come forward.
The killings have sent shockwaves through Johannesburg’s inner-city business community, particularly among foreign national traders operating in the CBD.
A video circulating online reportedly shows one of the shootings. Police have not yet confirmed whether the incidents are linked.