Bekkersdal tavern shooting: details emerge

In a shocking act of violence, nine people were killed and ten wounded early Sunday morning in a brutal shooting at a tavern in Bekkersdal, a township near Johannesburg. The incident has left the community heartbroken and on edge, grappling with the fear of escalating gang-related violence.

According to Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana, the attack unfolded shortly after 1am when two vehicles —  a white Toyota Quantum and a silver Toyota Etios — arrived at the tavern where patrons were enjoying their night. Without warning, the gunmen began to fire indiscriminately into the crowd.

“They attacked, randomly shot the people. Some of the people tried to run away,” Kekana recounted. “Inside the tavern, three people were shot dead, while ten others sustained serious gunshot injuries.” Three people who tried to escape were also shot before making it to a nearby clinic, where they later succumbed to their wounds, further deepening the community's grief.

The harrowing ordeal didn’t end there. As the attackers fled, they crossed paths with an elderly driver whom they shot as well. Eyewitness accounts describe a night of chaos as patrons darted for safety amid the hail of gunfire, leaving behind valuables in the pandemonium.

Kekana revealed that police suspect approximately ten assailants were involved, armed with various firearms, including an AK-47. "Immediately after the shooting, they left the scene and then returned, ostensibly to search the victims for valuables," he said, noting that some suspects were seen wearing balaclavas during the assault.

The motive behind this horrifying attack remains unclear, but it has raised serious concerns among local residents, who say they have long lived in fear due to frequent gunfire attributed to ongoing gang activity in the area. “The community feels that we are not adequately protected,” a local resident said.

The Gauteng Provincial Government has pledged its support in the investigation. Acting Gauteng Premier Jacob Mamabolo stated, “We have full confidence in our law enforcement agencies and call on them to leave no stone unturned in ensuring those responsible are apprehended.” He also voiced concerns regarding liquor establishments in the area, where legal non-compliance appears to fuel criminal activities.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a manhunt to catch those responsible for the attack, emphasising the urgency of their efforts. Kekana articulated the commitment of authorities, stating, “It’s a horrible thing, something which is inhuman and cannot be allowed or tolerated.” He reassured the community that forces would not rest until every last perpetrator is brought to justice.

Residents called for action to ensure their safety and security.

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