Pretoria – A group of about 10 gunmen swooped on a tavern in Shoba Informal Settlement in Olievenhoutbosch, without a word, fired indiscriminately at patrons, killing five and wounding three others.
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said the horrific attack inside the tavern occurred on Friday, 18 July 2025, at about 22:30.
“It is reported that the suspects came to a tavern and started shooting randomly, without saying a word,” said Lieutenant Colonel Masondo.
Two women and three men were shot and killed, and three others were injured.
“The motive for the shooting is unknown at this stage,” the police spokesperson said.
“The police have opened a case of murder and attempted murder for investigation.
“Police are on a lookout for approximately ten suspects after five people.”
Commenting on the attack on Saturday, 19 July 2025, Secretary-General of the GOOD Party Brett Herron, said: “The mass shooting in Olievenhoutsbosch in which 5 people were shot dead in a tavern is devastating.
“We extend our condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically and violently lost their lives.
“We have a crime, gangsterism, and violence crisis that is terrorising communities.”
Herron added: “We cannot ignore the pattern that is emerging that these mass shootings are most prevalent in apartheid era townships where people are forced to live in ghetto like conditions with poverty, overcrowding, and underinvestment characteristics.”
Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in the apprehension of the suspects to please call the nearest police station or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) said it was deeply disturbed and outraged by the senseless and brutal killing of five individuals.
“We express our sincerest condolences to the bereaved families and call for urgent, decisive action,” said ATM Spokesperson Zama Ntshona.
“It is unacceptable that armed criminals can carry out such an atrocity with impunity, leaving communities traumatised and lives destroyed.
The ATM called on the police and the Ministry of Police to immediately launch a 72-hour manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous crime.
“The fact that approximately ten armed individuals could storm into a public venue and indiscriminately open fire, without uttering a word, is a direct threat to public safety and national security,” said Ntshona.
“We further demand that a full and independent investigation be conducted into the operations of the tavern itself.”
The ATM said it has serious concerns about compliance with safety regulations, licensing conditions, and the broader role such establishments may play in perpetuating criminal activity within vulnerable communities.
“It is imperative that the owner of the tavern, who is currently being questioned by police, is fully investigated – not merely as a witness but as part of a broader inquiry into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event,” Ntshona said.
“South Africans cannot and must not become desensitised to mass shootings and violence.”
The ATM reiterated its longstanding call for a comprehensive review of community safety strategies and the tightening of gun control measures.
“We urge the public to come forward with any information that may assist in the swift arrest of those responsible,” said Ntshona.
“Let us work together to ensure that justice is not only served but seen to be served.”
