Death toll in South Africa shooting rises to 12 after one victim dies in hospital

The death toll from the shooting at an unlicensed bar near Pretoria, South Africa, on Sat, Oct 7, 2023, has increased to 12 following the death of an additional individual in hospital. Among the deceased are three minors aged 3, 12, and 16. The incident also resulted in 13 injuries.

The shooting occurred at a bar located within a hostel in the Saulville township, highlighting the ongoing issues surrounding unlicensed bars in the country, commonly referred to as Shebeens. These establishments are frequently associated with criminal activities.

Athlenda Mathe, spokesperson for the South African Police, stated that illegal Shebeens have been a significant concern due to their association with high rates of violent crime, including murders. Between April and September 2023, authorities have shut down 11,975 such establishments nationwide. Mathe emphasized the need for intensified inspections and operations to address this issue effectively.

South Africa has witnessed several mass shootings in Shebeens in recent years. In 2022, a shooting in Johannesburg resulted in 16 fatalities, with another incident on the same day claiming four lives in a different province. Additionally, in September of the previous year, 18 individuals, including 15 women, were killed in mass shootings at two nearby houses in Eastern Cape. Seven suspects were arrested, and authorities recovered three AK-style assault rifles believed to be used in the crimes.

South Africa records one of the highest murder rates globally, with firearms being the predominant cause of homicide. Despite the country's stringent gun ownership laws, illegal firearms are frequently involved in these crimes, complicating efforts to reduce violence.

Based on reporting by Africanews.