Police have launched an investigation into two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder after a fatal shooting at a liquor outlet in Barberton in the early hours of Sunday, 01 June 2025.
The incident occurred shortly after 04:00 when a group of armed suspects entered the establishment and opened fire, injuring three victims. Two of the victims later succumbed to their injuries, while the third is currently receiving medical treatment.
Authorities were alerted to the shooting and upon arrival at the scene, they discovered that the victims had already been transported to the hospital. Police then proceeded to the medical facility, where they were informed that two victims had died and the third was undergoing treatment.
Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of additional victims who may have sustained injuries but have not yet come forward. No arrests have been made, and the motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this stage.
A specialized investigative team, led by the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has been assembled to probe the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police have opened a case, and investigations are ongoing in an effort to apprehend the perpetrators.
Further updates will be provided as the case develops.