Bronkhorstspruit: The Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Investigations team, in collaboration with members from SAPS Bronkhorstpruit, has successfully apprehended a suspect involved in a tavern shooting incident that took place on 5 October 2025. The suspect is set to face the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court today, charged with five counts of murder and six counts of attempted murder.

According to South African Government News Agency, the suspect was detained during a tracing operation conducted on 21 October 2025 in Zithobeni, the township where the tragic event unfolded. The South African Police Service (SAPS) released a statement confirming the arrest and provided updates on the victims. “Five of the victims, who were admitted in hospital for medical attention, have since been discharged, while the sixth remains in hospital,” the statement read.

The incident on 5 October involved two men known in the community entering the tavern and demanding a patron’s licensed firearm. A struggle ensued, leading to a shot being fired. As patrons fled outside, the suspects indiscriminately fired shots, resulting in five fatalities and six serious injuries. The patron with the firearm was injured, and his weapon was subsequently taken by the suspects.