-Staff Writer / Sun, 21 Dec 2025
Police are hunting for at least 12 suspects believed to have used high-powered rifles and a handgun in a deadly mass shooting that left nine people dead and 10 others injured at a licensed tavern in Bekkersdal, west of Gauteng.
The shooting occurred shortly before 01:00 on Sunday, 21 December 2025, at the Tambo section. According to police, the suspects arrived at the tavern in a white kombi and a silver sedan before opening fire on patrons. The gunmen allegedly continued shooting randomly as they fled the scene.
Gauteng Serious and Violent Crime Investigations, assisted by the Crime Detection Tracing Unit, have launched a province-wide manhunt for the suspects.
“The suspects are believed to have been armed with rifles and at least one handgun, which were used in the commission of this brutal attack,” said police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili. “We have mobilised all necessary resources to trace and apprehend those responsible.”
Emergency services transported the injured victims to nearby medical facilities, where they are receiving treatment. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
Police forensic teams have processed the crime scene, while Crime Intelligence has been deployed to assist with the investigation. The motive for the shooting remains unknown at this stage.
Brigadier Muridili urged community members to assist police. “Anyone with information that may help us arrest the suspects is encouraged to contact SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit tip-offs anonymously via the MySAPS App,” she said.
The investigation continues.
News Junction (Gold Standard)
