BALLISTIC BREAKTHROUGH: Gun Linked To Atteridgeville Massacre As Murder Suspect Arrested

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that a ballistic report has positively linked a seized firearm to the deadly Atteridgeville mass shooting.

The horrific attack claimed the lives of at least 12 people and left a further 13 injured at a hostel in Saulsville, Atteridgeville, Pretoria, in the early hours of Saturday morning, 6 December 2025.

Police said the shooting took place at a residence operating as an informal tavern.

 

Suspect Arrested in Polokwane, Ballistic Link Confirmed

One of three suspects of interest was arrested last week during a joint operation between Gauteng and Limpopo police in Polokwane.

SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said officers recovered a firearm and several rounds of ammunition during the arrest.

“Following ballistics testing, police can now confirm that the firearm seized by police during the arrest of this suspect has been positively linked to the crime scene in Atteridgeville,” Mathe said.

She added that the suspect is expected to appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

“This suspect is due to appear in Polokwane this morning on a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. On Wednesday, 31 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,” Mathe said.

Police Launch Manhunt as Nation Mourns Young Victims

Mathe said the suspect’s identity cannot yet be revealed. “The suspect cannot be named at this time, pending the finalisation of an identity parade,” she said.

“A manhunt is still underway for the two suspects who are still on the run.”

National SAPS Commissioner General Fannie Masemola praised the multidisciplinary team investigating the case, describing the ballistic link as a major breakthrough.

During the attack, at least three unknown gunmen allegedly entered the premises and opened fire at random. Among those killed was a three-year-old child. A 12-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl also lost their lives.

The owner of the shebeen survived the shooting. Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya offered her condolences to the affected families and called on police to ensure all those responsible are brought to justice.

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