Gunmen Kill Nine in South African Tavern Attack

In the early hours of Sunday, December 21, 2025, a mass shooting at a licensed tavern in the Bekkersdal township, west of Johannesburg, left nine people dead and at least ten others wounded, authorities confirmed.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched an active manhunt for the assailants as investigations continue into the motive and identities of those responsible.

The attack occurred just before 1:00 a.m. local time at the KwaNoxolo tavern, a popular local drinking spot. According to police statements, a group of around a dozen unidentified gunmen arrived at the scene in two vehicles described as a white minibus and a silver sedan and opened fire on tavern patrons. Witnesses reported that the assailants also shot randomly at people in the streets outside as they fled the scene.

Among the victims was a ride-hailing driver who had stopped nearby, authorities said; others were patrons enjoying the late-night hours. The wounded have been transported to nearby hospitals where they are receiving treatment.

Gauteng police have described the attack as “pure criminality,” and have mobilised specialised units from crime scene management, serious crime investigations, and crime intelligence to assist with witness statements and forensic evidence gathering. No arrests have yet been announced.

This incident is the second mass shooting in South Africa within a matter of weeks, reflecting rising concerns over violent crime driven by illegal firearms and organised criminal networks despite the nation’s strict gun control laws. Local authorities are urging the public to provide any information that might help identify and apprehend the suspects.

Sources: Al Jazeera, ABC News, AFP, Associated Press, The Guardian