Key Takeaways
- At least 12 people died and 13 were injured in a mass shooting at a hostel in Saulsville, Atteridgeville, Pretoria.
- A ballistic report has linked a seized firearm to the Atteridgeville mass shooting.
- One suspect has been arrested and is due to appear in court on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as 12 counts of murder and 13 counts of attempted murder.
- A manhunt is still underway for two suspects who are still on the run.
- The incident occurred at a home used as an informal tavern, where at least three unknown gunmen entered and started randomly shooting.
Introduction to the Incident
The horrific shooting at a hostel in Saulsville, Atteridgeville, Pretoria, has left at least 12 people dead and 13 others injured. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, 6 December 2025, and has sent shockwaves throughout the community. The South African Police Service (Saps) has confirmed that a ballistic report has linked a seized firearm to the Atteridgeville mass shooting, providing a crucial breakthrough in the investigation.
The Arrest and Ballistics
A joint operation involving Gauteng and Limpopo police led to the arrest of one of the three suspects of interest in Polokwane, Limpopo. During the arrest, police seized a firearm and several rounds of ammunition found in the suspect’s possession. Following ballistics testing, police confirmed that the firearm seized has been positively linked to the crime scene in Atteridgeville. The suspect is due to appear in court on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as 12 counts of murder and 13 counts of attempted murder.
The Manhunt
The suspect cannot be named at this time, pending the finalisation of an identity parade. Meanwhile, a manhunt is still underway for the two suspects who are still on the run. The National Commissioner of Saps, General Fannie Masemola, has applauded the multidisciplinary team investigating the Atteridgeville mass shooting for registering another breakthrough. The police are working tirelessly to apprehend the remaining suspects and bring them to justice.
The Mass Shooting
The mass shooting occurred at a home used as an informal tavern, where at least three unknown gunmen entered the premises and started randomly shooting. Among the dead is a three-year-old, a 12-year-old boy, and a 16-year-old girl. The shebeen’s owner was among the survivors. The incident has left the community in shock, and Tshwane mayor Nasiphi Moya has offered her condolences and urged police to find those behind the murders.
Response and Investigation
The police have been working around the clock to investigate the incident and gather evidence. The ballistic report linking the seized firearm to the crime scene has provided a significant breakthrough in the case. The police are also reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events of that fateful night. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Condolences and Support
The community has come together to offer condolences and support to the families of the victims. Tshwane mayor Nasiphi Moya has urged police to find those behind the murders and bring them to justice. The incident has highlighted the need for increased safety and security measures in the community, particularly in informal taverns and public gathering places.
Conclusion
The mass shooting in Atteridgeville has left a trail of devastation and grief in its wake. The police are working tirelessly to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice. The community has come together to offer support and condolences to the families of the victims. As the investigation continues, it is essential to remember the victims and their families, and to work towards creating a safer and more secure community for all.
