Five Killed, Six Wounded in Zithobeni, Bronkhorstspruit Tavern Shooting — Police Probe Motive Behind Brutal Attack
Author: NewsInSA
Five people have been killed and six others wounded after gunmen opened fire at a tavern in Zithobeni, Bronkhorstspruit. Police have launched a manhunt and are investigating possible motives behind the deadly attack.
BRONKHORSTSPRUIT — The police in Bronkhorstspruit have launched a manhunt following a deadly tavern shooting that claimed the lives of five people and left six others injured in Zithobeni in the early hours of Sunday, 5 October 2025.
According to police spokespersons, officers responded to the scene at around 01:30 a.m. after reports of gunfire at a local tavern in the area.
What Happened
Witnesses told police that two men, known in the community, entered the tavern and demanded that one of the patrons hand over his licensed firearm. A confrontation ensued, and a shot was fired. As patrons attempted to flee the scene, the suspects opened fire randomly, striking several people both inside and outside the establishment.
The patron in question was shot and injured, and his firearm was stolen by the assailants during the chaos.
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Casualties and Investigation
The incident resulted in five fatalities and six injuries. Police confirmed that only one of the deceased has been identified so far, while all injured victims have been identified and transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
The injured patron whose firearm was taken will face charges under the Firearms Control Act (Act 60 of 2000) for negligent handling of a firearm.
Police Response
The Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit has registered five counts of murder and six counts of attempted murder, while the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Tracking Team has been deployed to trace and apprehend the suspects.
“The suspects are known in the community, and our teams are working tirelessly to bring them to justice,” police sources confirmed.
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Community Shock
The Zithobeni community has been left reeling in shock over the brutal attack, which once again highlights the growing scourge of gun violence in South Africa’s townships.
Police have urged anyone with information about the suspects to come forward or contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
This story is developing.