The death toll from a horrific mass shooting at a township pub in South Africa has increased to ten, authorities have confirmed. The incident, which also left nine people hospitalised, occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Scene of the Tragedy in Bekkersdal
The attack took place at a pub in Bekkersdal, a settlement located roughly 46 kilometres west of Johannesburg. According to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo, the victims included three women and seven men who lost their lives in the violence.
Following the shooting, police seized all alcohol from the premises. The pub owner is now set to face serious legal consequences, with charges of fraud and operating an illegal liquor outlet being brought forward.
Police Investigation and Suspects
Major General Fred Kekana, the acting provincial commissioner for Gauteng, provided an update on the investigation. He revealed that, based on information provided by the local community, two individuals have been identified as potential suspects in the case.
This shooting marks the second such tragedy at a township pub, often referred to locally as a shebeen or tavern, within a matter of weeks. In early December, a mass shooting at an unlicensed bar near Pretoria resulted in at least 12 fatalities. A 32-year-old man was arrested in connection with that incident on Monday.
A Nation Grappling with Violent Crime
This latest episode underscores South Africa's severe struggle with violent crime. The country has one of the highest homicide rates globally, with official figures for 2024 reporting over 26,000 murders—an average of more than 70 per day.
Despite the existence of strict gun control laws, firearms remain the most commonly used weapon in these crimes. Authorities consistently note that a significant number of these offences are committed with illicit, unregistered firearms.
