Ten foreign nationals are expected to appear in the Westonaria Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 29 December 2025, following the deadly shooting at a tavern in Bekkersdal, Gauteng, that claimed the lives of 10 people.
The incident occurred on 21 December 2025 at the KwaNoxolo tavern, when approximately 12 armed men, wearing balaclavas, arrived in a white kombi and a silver sedan and opened fire on patrons.
Deadly Attack Leaves Community Traumatised
According to police, nine people were killed at the scene, while a tenth victim later died in hospital from gunshot wounds. A further nine people were injured and are still receiving medical treatment.
The brazen nature of the attack has left the local community traumatised and has reignited national debate around violent crime, illegal firearms and immigration enforcement.
Suspects Arrested After Joint Operation
Police confirmed that 11 suspects have been arrested following a coordinated operation involving the South African Police Service (SAPS), private security, and mine security personnel operating in the area.
The suspects were reportedly found hiding at two separate locations in and around Bekkersdal.
Of those arrested:
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Ten are foreign nationals
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One is a South African citizen
Charges and Nationalities
Police said the South African suspect was not directly involved in the shooting, but will be charged with harbouring fugitives after allegedly providing shelter to the suspects.
The 10 foreign nationals face multiple charges, including:
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Murder
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Attempted murder
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Possession of illegal firearms
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Contravention of the Immigration Act
Authorities confirmed that:
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Eight suspects are Basotho nationals
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Two suspects are Mozambican nationals
Motive Still Unknown
At this stage, police say the motive for the attack remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing. Law enforcement officials have not ruled out organised crime-related violence.
Public Frustration Grows
The arrests have triggered widespread frustration among South Africans, with many questioning border control, immigration enforcement, and the country’s ability to curb violent crime.
Community members have called for swift justice, stricter policing, and decisive action to prevent similar attacks in the future.
Police have urged anyone with additional information related to the shooting to come forward as investigations continue.
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