Parolee Named Among Suspects In Deadly Saulsville Tavern Massacre That Claimed 12 Lives

National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has disclosed a disturbing detail in the investigation into the Saulsville massacre: one of the suspects sought by police was only recently released from prison on parole.

The mass shooting erupted at a hostel tavern in Saulsville, west of Pretoria, at around 4am on Saturday. According to police, three armed men entered the establishment and opened fire on patrons, leaving 12 people dead in a scene of chaos and terror.

Among the victims were several minors who had been asleep in a bedroom inside the tavern. The children who lost their lives were aged 3, 12, and 16. Police say the three suspects are still on the run, but investigators have positively identified them.

Police Confirm Parolee’s Criminal Background

Commissioner Masemola said one of the suspects had been released on parole late last year and has a criminal history that includes violent offences.

“The parolee came out of jail in September 2025. We are still verifying the full conviction in terms of charges, but there is attempted murder and extortion-related crimes,” he explained.

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Authorities are intensifying efforts to trace the suspects behind the deadly attack, describing the incident as one of the most harrowing mass shootings in the area in recent years.

Police teams are pursuing all leads as the community reels from the devastating loss of life.

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