Fear grips locals after robbers storm tavern, shooting five

A community is reeling in shock after a robbery at a popular local tavern in Meadowlands, Soweto, over the weekend left five people injured and several others traumatised.

The incident occurred at around 9.30pm at Ka Star tavern, owned by local businessman Lawrence Khumalo. According to Khumalo, he was alerted by his frightened wife, who called him frantically after gunfire rang out outside the premises.

“She was terrified, saying there were gunshots outside. When I got there, I found blood everywhere and bodies lying on the ground leading up to the gate. Three people had been shot outside the yard and two more inside the tavern,” he said.

Tavern attack by 4 armed men

According to Khumalo, the attack was carried out by four armed men who disguised themselves as customers who wanted to buy alcohol. Then they pulled out guns and ordered the cashier to open the till.

He said two suspects entered the tavern while the other two kept watch outside.

“Inside, they pointed pistols at my son, who was working the till. They demanded cash, stole 12 bottles of whiskey, ciders, and then forced their way into the seating area where customers were relaxing. They ordered everyone to lie down and went through their pockets, taking phones and wallets.”

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Five people were shot during the incident and are receiving treatment for their injuries.

Two others were pistol-whipped and sustained minor injuries. Khumalo said some of the victims are players from his local soccer club.

Police have launched an investigation but no arrests have yet been made.

No arrests made yet

SA Police Service captain Tintswalo Sibeko said: “A case of business robbery and five counts of attempted murder have been opened.

“Police investigations are ongoing. Anyone who may have information that can assist is requested to contact the Crime Stop Line or anonymously give tip-offs.”

The tavern is a popular hangout spot on weekends frequented by regulars and nearby residents.

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Khumalo said in all his years of running the business, he had never experienced such violence.

“This has shaken us. These are not just random people – these are young men who are part of our community.

“People are scared. The fear that they could come back is very real. When things like this happen, it makes running a business like mine very difficult. There’s fear, uncertainty and so many unanswered questions.”

Community feeling unsafe

Patrons who were at the tarven yesterday when The Citizen visited said the attack has left the community feeling unsafe.

Nomsa Makhathini, who lives close to the establishment, said: “This tavern is not like any other. It’s a close-knit place. People who come here know each other, it’s not a space for troublemakers. That’s why this is such a shock to the community. Even now, we have no idea who did this or why.”