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Manhunt Launched After Bekkersdal Tavern Shooting Leaves Nine Dead

Police have deployed specialized Gauteng units in a sweeping manhunt linked to a recent pattern of tavern attacks.

Overview

  • Gunfire erupted just before 1 a.m. at the licensed KwaNoxolo tavern in Bekkersdal, about 40 km southwest of Johannesburg, leaving roughly 10 people injured.
  • About 12 suspects arrived in a white kombi minibus and a silver sedan, opened fire on patrons, and continued shooting as they fled the area.
  • Police said most attackers carried pistols and one had an AK‑47, with some victims shot on nearby streets as the assailants escaped.
  • Investigators reported the attackers searched victims and took valuables such as cell phones; a driver for an online ride‑hailing service was among those killed.
  • SAPS activated Serious and Violent Crime Investigations, the Crime Detection Tracing Unit, Crime Intelligence and forensics; no arrests or motive have been announced in what is the second mass tavern shooting in South Africa this month.