By Staff Reporter
BEKKERSDAL – Nine people were shot dead and 10 others injured during a brazen mass shooting at a licensed tavern in the early hours of Sunday morning, December 21, 2025, in the Tambo section of Bekkersdal.
According to reports, approximately 12 unidentified suspects, travelling in a white kombi and a silver sedan, arrived at the tavern shortly before 01:00 and opened fire on patrons without warning.
The attackers allegedly continued shooting randomly as they fled the scene, spreading fear beyond the tavern premises.
The violent attack left a devastating aftermath. Nine people lost their lives at the scene, while 10 others sustained gunshot injuries. The injured victims were rushed to nearby medical facilities, where they are currently receiving treatment.
In response, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng has launched a comprehensive investigation and manhunt. All necessary resources have been mobilised, including Forensic Crime Scene Management and Crime Intelligence units, to collect evidence and reconstruct the sequence of events.
At this stage, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear and forms a central part of the ongoing investigation. SAPS has confirmed that a joint operation involving the Serious and Violent Crime Investigations unit and the Crime Detection Tracing Unit is underway to track down and arrest those responsible.
Police are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information that could help identify or locate the suspects is urged to contact SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tip-offs via the MySAPS App. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.
