PRETORIA – A tragic shooting in the Choba informal settlement in Olievenhoutbosch has left five people killed in Pretoria on Friday evening, prompting Gauteng police to launch a manhunt for at least ten armed suspects believed to be involved in the brutal attack.
According to law enforcement officials, the incident occurred when a group of heavily armed gunmen stormed a local tavern and began firing indiscriminately at patrons. The sudden and violent assault has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised urgent concerns about safety, illegal firearms, and the rise in violent crimes across South Africa.
Initial reports indicated that six people had died in the attack. However, after further verification, police have confirmed the number of fatalities stands at five — including two women and three men. Several others were injured and taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Their conditions have not yet been disclosed.
Eyewitnesses Recount Chaos During the Five Killed in Pretoria Shooting
Witnesses described scenes of chaos and terror during the shooting. One local resident said she heard rapid gunfire followed by screams and people running in all directions. “It was like a war zone,” she said. “I hid in my house and prayed they wouldn’t come our way.”
The exact motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Police confirmed that the tavern owner has been taken in for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation. However, authorities have not ruled out any possibilities, including gang-related violence, targeted killings, or extortion.
Police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo said that forensic teams are actively collecting evidence from the scene and reviewing surveillance footage, if available, to identify the attackers. “We are working around the clock to find those responsible,” he said.
This five killed in Pretoria shooting is part of a disturbing trend of tavern-related violence in South Africa. Over the past year, numerous mass shootings have occurred at bars and taverns, especially in economically distressed areas. Many of these incidents remain unsolved, with communities continuing to live in fear.
Experts cite several contributing factors, including the proliferation of illegal firearms, organized crime networks, and inadequate policing in informal settlements. Residents in Olivenhoutbosch say the area has become increasingly unsafe in recent months, with robberies and assaults occurring regularly.
“We don’t feel safe anymore,” said a community leader, who asked to remain anonymous. “Every weekend, we hear of someone being shot or stabbed. The government needs to take this seriously.”
Pretoria- In response to the shooting, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is calling on members of the public to assist in bringing the suspects to justice. “Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in the apprehension of the suspects to please call the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111,” said Masondo.
Community policing forums (CPFs) and local organizations are also mobilizing support to help victims’ families and pressure authorities for stronger security measures.
While no formal government statement has been issued regarding the five killed in Pretoria shooting, opposition parties and civil rights groups have condemned the violence and called for swift action. Many are demanding urgent reforms in gun control legislation, improved policing, and stronger oversight of tavern licensing.
“This is not just a policing issue; it’s a policy issue,” said one local NGO leader. “Taverns are often poorly regulated, and the availability of firearms in these areas is out of control. We need a national strategy to address these recurring massacres.”
As of Saturday morning, the names of the victims have not been released pending notification of next of kin. Police say the investigation is still in its early stages, but they are confident that with public cooperation, the suspects will be apprehended.
Anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, is urged to come forward. Authorities are also reviewing similar incidents in the region to determine if there could be any connections between this attack and others in recent months.
The tragic five killed in Pretoria incident is a harsh reminder of the growing violence plaguing South African communities. As investigations continue, the families of the victims — and the entire nation — wait for justice, answers, and a commitment to making the country’s streets safer.
For now, Pretoria mourns another loss — and hopes that the perpetrators of this senseless act will be brought to justice.
Source- EWN
