Police in Embalenhle, under the Gert Sibande District, have launched an investigation into two counts of murder following a shooting incident at a tavern in Extension 15 on Thursday night.
According to police, officers were alerted by community members to a shooting at the tavern at around 23h00 on 1 January 2026. Upon arrival, police found two men lying on the ground inside the premises, covered with blankets, while members of the community had gathered outside.
Both victims, who are residents of Embalenhle, were attended to by Emergency Medical Services personnel and were certified dead at the scene. Their identities are known to police but are yet to be formally confirmed by their next of kin.
Preliminary investigations indicate that an armed suspect allegedly entered the tavern, fired shots, and left the scene, only to return moments later and fatally shoot the two victims. The suspect is also believed to have fired additional shots randomly before fleeing the scene.
The suspect, who was reportedly wearing a white jacket, has not yet been arrested, and the motive for the shooting remains unknown.
A manhunt has been launched, and a 72-Hour Plan has been activated to trace the suspect. Police are appealing to anyone with information that may assist the investigation to contact Detective Captain Fanie Sindane on 077 429 6817 or 017 631 8024. Members of the public can also call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit information via the MySAPSApp. All information will be treated as confidential, and callers may remain anonymous.
Meanwhile, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, expressed concern about the ongoing incidents of shootings at taverns. He reiterated that police will work tirelessly to bring the perpetrator to justice and urged liquor traders to comply with safety regulations to ensure the safety of patrons.
Police investigations continue.
