Saulsville Hostel Mass Shooting Suspect Confesses And Abandons Bail

A suspect linked to the deadly mass shooting in Saulsville and Atteridgeville hostel has appeared before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on charges of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

The accused, who has not been named, abandoned his bail application. The matter has been postponed to 23 February 2026.

Police Confirm Confession and Ballistic Link

Gauteng Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni confirmed that the suspect confessed to his involvement in the attack.

“On his appearance, there was a confession which we had sourced, and that confession was presented, and this confession ultimately had a link in terms of the mass shooting in Saulsville and Atteridgeville hostel.”

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Police further confirmed that a ballistic report linked a seized firearm to the shooting.

“When we get this firearm, they’ve undertaken a scientific process to determine whether the firearm was used. How can I say this firearm is not used in the shooting?

“So, but I cannot say exactly explicitly, this firearm was used to kill this particular individual was used to kill that particular individual. But the scientific ballistic outcome confirms that the firearm was used,” Mthombeni said.

Reflecting on the scale of the tragedy, he added:
“I think it’s the first time in my career that I have twelve people, fatally wounded in one crime scene. 13 people get admitted to hospital, a total of 25.”

Children Among the Dead in Saulsville Hostel Shooting

At least 12 people were killed, while 13 others were injured, during the horrific mass shooting at a hostel in Saulsville, Atteridgeville, Pretoria, in the early hours of Saturday, 6 December 2025.

Three armed men allegedly entered the premises and opened fire at random. Among the victims were a three-year-old child, a 12-year-old boy, and a 16-year-old girl. The owner of the shebeen survived the attack.

The shooting reportedly took place at a residence being used as an informal tavern.

Police have launched a manhunt for two suspects who remain at large, as investigations continue.

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