Police arrest suspect in Zithobeni tavern mass shooting that left five dead...Click to Read More >>➤
Police in Gauteng have arrested one of two suspects linked to a deadly mass shooting at a tavern in Zithobeni, Bronkhorstspruit. The violent incident occurred on the morning of Sunday, 5 October 2025, claiming five lives and leaving six others injured.
The breakthrough came on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, following an intensive investigation. Gauteng police spokesperson Brenda Muridili confirmed the arrest was made during a tracing operation in Zithobeni, the same township where the attack took place.
The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court on 23 October 2025. He faces five counts of murder and six counts of attempted murder for his alleged role in the mass shooting.
Details of the deadly attack
According to witness accounts provided to police, two men, who are known in the local community, entered the tavern. They approached a patron and demanded he hand over his licensed firearm.
A single gunshot rang out, causing panic. As patrons fled the establishment, the suspects opened fire randomly on the crowd.
The patron who was the initial target was shot and injured. The assailants took his 9mm pistol during the attack. The shooting resulted in five fatalities and six people suffering gunshot wounds.
Police investigation and charges
Brenda Muridili provided an update on the victims’ conditions. Five of the six injured individuals have since been discharged from the hospital. One victim remains hospitalized for further treatment.
Only one of the five deceased persons has been formally identified so far. All of the injured victims have been identified.
The investigation has also led to charges against the patron who owned the firearm. Muridili stated that the injured patron will be charged with contravention of the Firearms Control Act, Act 60 of 2000. The charge relates to the alleged negligent handling of his 9mm pistol prior to the mass shooting.
Ongoing search for second suspect
Police efforts continue as they search for the second suspect involved in the mass shooting. The community of Zithobeni remains shaken by the brazen attack that unfolded in their neighborhood.
This arrest marks a critical step in the investigation into the mass shooting that traumatized the Bronkhorstspruit community. Authorities have reassured the public that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
The mass shooting in Zithobeni is part of a broader pattern of violent crime that authorities are working to combat. Police are urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of the second suspect to come forward.
As the case prepares to move to the courts, the community awaits justice for the victims of this devastating mass shooting. The incident has highlighted ongoing concerns about violent crime in the area. ...Click to Read More >>➤
