Barberton tavern shooting leaves one dead, three injured as police hunt suspects

One man has been killed and three others wounded after gunmen opened fire on a group walking home from a tavern in Emjindini, Barberton, Mpumalanga, police said.

What happened

The shooting occurred at 3:50am on Saturday. Police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo said officers received a call about an incident at a local hospital. A medical practitioner pointed out a deceased man and three other victims who had sustained gunshot wounds.

Police response and investigation

Police have opened a case of murder and three counts of attempted murder, and a manhunt for the suspect(s) has been launched. Masondo said the preliminary investigation indicates the four victims were shot while they were on their way from a tavern in Emjindini.

“Upon arrival, a medical practitioner pointed out a deceased man and three other victims who had sustained gunshot wounds.”

Masondo confirmed that one victim succumbed to his injuries while the other three are currently receiving medical treatment. He added that the motive for the shooting is yet to be determined and that investigations are continuing.

Call for public help

Police urged anyone with information that may assist in apprehending the suspect(s) to contact the nearest police station, call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or submit information via MYSAPSAPP. Authorities said all received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.

“We therefore plead with members of the public to alert the authorities when they have information about those in possession of a firearm unlawfully, so that we can act before another life of an innocent person is taken. We will not allow criminals to terrorise our communities. Hence, we will act without any hesitation.”

Provincial police commitment

The Provincial Commissioner of the SA Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, said officers will work around the clock to ensure the suspect(s) are arrested.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.