Triple tavern murder shocks eMalahleni community

A devastating triple murder occurred at the Zama Zama Tavern in Klarinet Extension 3 in eMalahleni.

The brutal shooting took place in the early hours on Sunday, claiming the lives of three people, including a 15-year-old boy, who is the son of the tavern owner.

According to Witbank SAPS, officers responded to a shooting inside the tavern at 00:45.

Upon arrival, they found the lifeless body of an unknown male outside the tavern. Another victim, also male, was found alive nearby, but critically injured. Further investigation revealed two cartridges inside the tavern, two bullet holes in the ceiling, eight cartridges outside, and a bullet on the floor near the tavern door.

Tragically, the deceased 15-year-old suffered bullet wounds to the head and leg.

His brother identified the one deceased male as one of the alleged suspects, who was among six individuals allegedly involved in the shooting.

The community allegedly apprehended another suspect and took justice into their own hands.

The suspect was later taken to Witbank Hospital with serious injuries. He died at 09:15.

Three cases of murder have been opened. The motive behind the triple murder is unknown, and the investigation is ongoing.

Unfortunately, the murder weapon was removed from the scene by members of the community, which could severely compromise the investigation.

Witbank police have urged members of the public with information about the case or the whereabouts of the murder weapon to contact Witbank Detective Services’ standby number 079 891 4809, Crime Stop on 0860 010 111, or send information via the MySAPS App.

“We also urge whoever took the murder weapon to hand it in at their nearest police station,” says police spokesperson Captain Eddie Hall.