Dirco condemns Sydney shooting that claimed 12 lives


The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has condemned the shooting incident which left at least 12 people dead and 29 others injured at Bondi Beach in Sydney.

One gunman is among the dead; another is in hospital and police are investigating whether a third was involved.

Police have officially declared the attack as a terrorist incident.

More than 1 000 people were at the site when the shooting happened, many celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.

Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri says the country stands with Australia during this period of mourning.

“The Government of the Republic of South Africa extends its deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the people of Australia following the tragic terrorist attacks in Sydney. Our thoughts are with all those affected, especially the families and friends of the victims. We condemn the senseless violence which appears to have targeted the Jewish faithful while they were lighting candles for Hanukkah at Bondi Beach. There is no justification for terrorism or attacks on any group based on faith or identity.”

Build One SA leader Mmusi Maimane has also condemned the attack.

Maimane says in a post on X that the extremist views which led to the attack by two armed men must be similarly condemned.