Three foreign nationals were killed in a brazen daylight shooting in the Johannesburg central business district on April 27, 2026, after gunmen opened fire inside a McDonald’s restaurant.

According to police, the victims—believed to be between the ages of 30 and 45—were having breakfast when two masked assailants entered the outlet at the corner of Jeppe and Smal streets and began shooting. All three men were declared dead at the scene.

The suspects fled immediately following the attack, triggering a large-scale manhunt. Officers from the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) swiftly cordoned off the area while emergency services responded.

In an initial statement, authorities confirmed that JMPD’s CCTV Reaction Unit had been dispatched to the scene, where three male victims were found with gunshot wounds inside the restaurant. They were later pronounced dead.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the victims are believed to be foreign national shop owners. While their identities have not been officially confirmed, reports suggest they may be Somali nationals.

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni condemned the killings, vowing a thorough investigation. “No stone will be left unturned,” he said.

The incident has intensified concerns over escalating violent crime in Johannesburg’s city centre.

Local councillor Sthembiso Hlatshwayo described the situation as deteriorating, noting that another fatal shooting had occurred on the same street just a day earlier.

“This raises serious concerns about safety,” Hlatshwayo said, adding that he would engage law enforcement authorities to address the issue.

Police have urged members of the public to assist with the investigation by providing any relevant information. Tips can be submitted anonymously via the SAPS crime line or at the nearest police station.
No arrests have been made, and the motive for the attack remains under investigation.