Police search for families of 9 victims of KwaNoxolo tavern shooting, as community reels from senseless violence. Reuters image
(The Post News)- Rand West Municipality’s Deputy Executive Mayor, Nontombi Molatlhegi, has alleged that illegal miners linked to nearby sites are responsible for the Bekkersdal mass shooting, which left nine people dead and ten others wounded. The attack occurred at the KwaNoxolo tavern in the Tambo Section, where gunmen stormed in and started shooting at patrons randomly.
Police Launched a Serious Manhunt
A manhunt has been launched for the ten suspects who fled the scene in a white Quantum and silver sedan. The motive behind the shooting is still unknown, but authorities are investigating possible links to nearby illegal mining sites.
Molatlhegi stated that the shortage of police officers in the area is affecting police visibility. She added that the community believes the attackers were illegal foreigners linked to nearby illegal mining sites, and this isn’t the first incident of its kind in Bekkersdal.
The area is surrounded by abandoned mines and shafts, making it a hotspot for illegal mining activities. Molatlhegi emphasized that the problem of unattended excavations is contributing to the rise in crime.
The police have mobilized all necessary resources, including Forensic Crime Scene Management and Crime Intelligence, to investigate the attack. The public is urged to come forward with any information that may aid in the investigation.
Gauteng’s Acting Premier, Jacob Mamabolo, vowed to provide support to the police as they conduct the manhunt and investigation. He emphasized the need for intensified operations to shut down illegal taverns and remove illegal firearms from the streets.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of the community, with residents expressing fear and frustration over the rising crime rates. Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia’s spokesperson, Kamogelo Mogotsi, stated that the proliferation of illegal firearms is a significant driver of violent crime in Gauteng.
The police have appealed to the public to assist with the investigation, stressing that community cooperation is crucial in tracking down the suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact the SAPS Crime Stop line on 08600 10111 or submit tip-offs via the MySAPS App.
Meta Description: Authorities investigate possible links between illegal mining sites and the Bekkersdal mass shooting, which left 9 dead and 10 wounded. The public is urged to come forward with information to aid in the investigation.
About the Author
