Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng — The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature has expressed deep concern and condemnation following a deadly tavern shooting that claimed five lives and left six others injured in Zithobeni, Bronkhorstspruit, in the early hours of Sunday, 5 October 2025.
According to preliminary police reports, the Qedukoma Tavern shooting unfolded around 01:30 AM, involving known suspects and the illegal use of firearms. The horrific incident has plunged the local community into mourning and reignited national outrage over the escalating gun violence plaguing South Africa’s townships and social spaces.
The Committee described the incident as a tragic reminder of the urgent need to address gun proliferation, particularly in areas such as taverns, which have become hotspots for violent crime. “The brazenness of the perpetrators and the ease with which firearms are accessed is alarming,” the Committee said in a statement.
This latest tragedy comes shortly after the release of national and provincial crime statistics, which, according to the Committee, fail to isolate the growing threat of gun-related crimes in Gauteng.
“We call for the development of alternative and dedicated firearm-related crime statistics,” the Committee urged. “Accurate data will help shape targeted interventions, policy reforms, and community mobilisation against gun violence.”
The Committee also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a Gun-Free South Africa, stating that reducing both legal and illegal firearms is essential to restoring safety and dignity in communities across the province.
Commending the swift response of law enforcement authorities, including the station commander, detectives, and the Provincial Task Team, the Committee urged that all resources be deployed to ensure the suspects are arrested and justice is served.
The Portfolio Committee pledged to continue working closely with the Department of Community Safety and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to strengthen safety mechanisms, especially in areas where alcohol is sold and consumed.
“This tragedy must serve as a turning point in our collective effort to tackle the scourge of gun violence,” the Committee concluded.
