Key Takeaways
- Ballistics evidence has linked a confiscated firearm to the fatal Saulsville Hostel mass shooting in Atteridgeville, which resulted in 12 fatalities and 13 injuries.
- A joint operation by Gauteng and Limpopo police led to the arrest of one suspect and the recovery of a gun and ammunition, which have been connected to the crime scene.
- The suspect has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and will face additional charges of murder and attempted murder.
- A manhunt is still underway for two remaining suspects who are believed to be on the run.
- The National SAPS Commissioner has commended the multidisciplinary team for the breakthrough, describing it as a critical step towards justice for the victims.
Introduction to the Case
The Saulsville Hostel mass shooting in Atteridgeville was a devastating incident that resulted in the loss of 12 lives and left 13 people injured. The incident sent shockwaves through the community, and the police have been working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice. Recently, a significant development in the investigation has been announced, with ballistics evidence connecting a confiscated firearm to the crime scene. This breakthrough is a result of a joint operation conducted by Gauteng and Limpopo police, which led to the arrest of one of the suspects.
The Joint Operation and Arrest
The joint operation was conducted in Polokwane, Limpopo, and resulted in the arrest of one of three people of interest. During the arrest, officers discovered a gun and multiple rounds of ammunition in the suspect’s possession. These items have since been sent for ballistics testing, which has confirmed that they were used in the Atteridgeville mass shooting. The suspect has already appeared before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and has abandoned his bail application. He has been remanded in custody until his next court appearance, which is scheduled for February 19, 2026.
Ballistics Evidence and Charges
National SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that the ballistics analysis has positively linked the firearm recovered during the suspect’s arrest to the crime scene in Atteridgeville. This evidence is a significant breakthrough in the investigation, and has led to the suspect being charged with 12 counts of murder and 13 counts of attempted murder. The suspect will appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on December 31 to face these charges. The police are confident that this evidence will play a crucial role in securing a conviction and bringing justice to the victims and their families.
Manhunt for Remaining Suspects
While the arrest of one suspect is a significant development, the police are still searching for two remaining suspects who are believed to be on the run. The police are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of these suspects to come forward and assist in the investigation. The National SAPS Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has commended the multidisciplinary team for their hard work and dedication to the case, and has expressed his confidence that the remaining suspects will be apprehended soon.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The breakthrough in the investigation is a critical step towards justice for the victims of the Saulsville Hostel mass shooting. The police will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice, and that the community can begin to heal and move forward. The case will continue to be closely monitored, and the police will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the community is urged to remain vigilant and to report any information that may assist in the investigation. The National SAPS Commissioner’s commendation of the multidisciplinary team is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the police, and serves as a reminder that justice will be served.