Police in South Africa have confirmed the death toll from a weekend mass shooting at a township pub has risen to ten people. The incident, which also left nine others hospitalised, marks the second such attack on a drinking establishment in just three weeks.
Details of the Bekkersdal Attack
The violent assault occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning at a pub in Bekkersdal township, located roughly 46 kilometres west of Johannesburg. According to authorities, the victims included three women and seven men.
Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo stated that the pub's owner now faces charges of fraud and operating an illegal liquor outlet. In response, officials confiscated all alcohol from the premises.
Police Investigation and Suspects
Major General Fred Kekana, the acting provincial commissioner for Gauteng, informed reporters that two potential suspects have been identified. This development followed tips and reports provided to the police by members of the local community.
The search for those responsible continues as investigators piece together the events that led to the deadly attack.
A Pattern of Township Violence
This tragedy is the latest in a disturbing series of mass shootings at informal bars, often known locally as shebeens or taverns. In early December, a similar attack at an unlicensed bar near Pretoria resulted in at least 12 fatalities. A 32-year-old man was arrested in connection with that shooting on Monday.
South Africa continues to grapple with one of the world's highest homicide rates. Official figures for 2024 recorded over 26,000 murders, averaging more than 70 per day. While the country maintains strict gun ownership laws, authorities note that firearms remain the most common weapon used in violent crimes, with many incidents involving illicit weapons.
