Police link recovered firearm to Atteridgeville tavern mass shooting following arrest
Forensic evidence has linked a firearm found on a suspect to the Atteridgeville mass shooting that left 12 people dead.
Image: Leon Knipe
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed a major breakthrough in the investigation into the mass shooting that left twelve people dead and thirteen others injured in Atteridgeville, west of Pretoria.
National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, has welcomed the latest development, saying he “applauds the multidisciplinary team investigating the Atteridgeville mass shooting for registering another breakthrough.”
The breakthrough follows the arrest of one of three persons, wanted in connection with the shooting, during a joint operation conducted by Gauteng and Limpopo police last week. The suspect was arrested in Polokwane, Limpopo.
The mass shooting occurred earlier this month at an informal tavern operating inside a hostel in Saulsville, Atteridgeville. Gunmen opened fire on patrons in the early hours of the morning, killing twelve people and injuring thirteen others, including minors. The attack sparked widespread outrage and prompted a nationwide manhunt for three suspects believed to have fled the scene.
“During his arrest, police seized a firearm and several rounds of ammunition found in his possession,” SAPS said. Forensic analysis has since yielded critical evidence linking the suspect to the deadly attack.
Following ballistic testing, police confirmed that “the firearm seized by police during the arrest of this suspect has been positively linked to the crime scene in Atteridgeville.”
The arrested suspect is due to appear today, December 30 in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
SAPS further confirmed that “on Wednesday, 31st December 2025, the same suspect will appear again before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on 12 counts of murder and 13 counts of attempted murder.”
Police have indicated that “the suspect cannot be named for now, pending the finalisation of an identity parade.”
Meanwhile, SAPS said “a manhunt is still underway for the two suspects who are still on the run,” as investigations continue to bring all those responsible for the Atteridgeville massacre to justice.