South African authorities have made a significant breakthrough in a horrific mass shooting case, arresting a 32-year-old suspect believed to be involved in an attack that killed a dozen people at an unlicensed tavern.
Suspect Apprehended Far From Crime Scene
The arrest occurred on Sunday, as the suspect was travelling to Botlokwa in Limpopo province. This location is more than 340 kilometres (210 miles) from the scene of the mass shooting in Saulsville township, west of Pretoria, which took place on 6 December.
Police intercepted the man on the R101 Road in the Westenburg precinct. During the operation, officers recovered an unlicensed handgun from his vehicle, which they believe was used in the commission of the murders. The firearm has been sent for ballistic analysis at the Forensic Science Laboratory.
Details of the Saulsville Township Attack
The violent incident, which police confirmed on Monday, saw three gunmen open fire on patrons inside the illicit drinking establishment. The attack resulted in the deaths of 12 people, including three children aged 3, 12, and 16. At least 13 other individuals sustained injuries.
To date, the motive for the brutal assault remains unknown. The recent arrest marks a critical step in the investigation, though the search continues for the two other alleged perpetrators.
A Persistent Problem of Gun Violence
This arrest came on the same day that another mass shooting at a pub in Bekkersdal township, west of Johannesburg, claimed nine lives and wounded ten others. Police are still hunting for the suspects in that separate attack.
These tragedies underscore South Africa's severe struggle with violent crime. The nation has one of the highest homicide rates globally, recording more than 26,000 homicides in 2024—an average exceeding 70 per day. Firearms are the leading weapon used in these killings.
Despite having relatively strict gun ownership laws, authorities note that many murders are committed with illegal weapons. Mass shootings at unlicensed bars, known locally as shebeens or taverns, are becoming a particularly serious concern.
In a concerted effort to tackle the issue, police shut down over 11,000 illegal taverns between April and September this year alone, arresting more than 18,000 people for involvement in illicit liquor sales.
