Bekkersdal Tavern Mass Shooting: Owner Describes ‘Endless Gunshots’ As Nine Are Killed

A deadly mass shooting at a tavern in Bekkersdal on the West Rand has left a community traumatised, with the business owner believing the attack may have been a targeted hit.

The incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday when a group of 12 armed men forced their way into the establishment and opened fire. Nine people were killed in the shooting, while a further 10 sustained injuries.

Tavern owner Nonesi Matwa said the gunmen moved through the venue shooting indiscriminately before robbing patrons of their mobile phones. Cash and alcohol were also taken during the violent raid, and no arrests have been made so far.

Bekkersdal mass shooting leaves tavern shut down

Matwa, who has been running the tavern since 2008, has since closed the business following the attack. She said safety measures were always in place, including two security guards stationed at the entrance to search patrons before entry.

Clear signage outside the premises warned “No Weapons” and “No Under 18s”, she added. Despite these precautions, the gunmen struck as she was getting ready to shut down for the night.

“I hid myself and all I can hear is endless gunshots,” Matwa recalled. “I could hear them screaming, asking patrons for their phones, and I stayed hiding.”

‘I saw many people lying on the floor’

According to Matwa, the attackers wore balaclavas to conceal their identities as they carried out the assault. The shooting only stopped minutes later, leaving behind scenes of chaos and heartbreak.

“When the gunfire finally ceased, Matwa emerged to a scene of devastation,” she said.

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“When I went outside, I saw many people lying on the floor. There were others checking for their relatives, and I also checked and discovered they had died,” Matwa said.

The tavern owner said she remains unsure about the future of her business and whether it will ever reopen following the tragedy.

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