The death toll from the mass shooting at a tavern in Extension 3, Wedela, on Gauteng’s West Rand has risen to 18 after one more victim succumbed to injuries in hospital, police confirmed on Monday, 28 September 2026.
Gauteng police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said the latest death occurred a day after eight unidentified gunmen armed with AK-47 rifles and pistols opened fire on patrons at approximately 21:30 on Saturday, 26 September.
Originally, 17 people (13 men and four women) were declared dead at the scene, with 15 others wounded. The additional fatality has led police to update the charges to 18 counts of murder, 18 counts of attempted murder, two counts of malicious damage to property, and armed robbery.
Only four of the deceased have been identified so far — two South African nationals and two Lesotho nationals. All injured victims still in hospital have been identified. According to police, five of those remaining in hospital were shot in the upper body and are in a critical condition; the others are stable.
A dedicated multidisciplinary investigation team has been mobilised. It comprises seasoned murder and robbery detectives, Crime Intelligence, and Crime Scene Investigation members, and is led by a senior brigadier responsible for Crime Investigation Services in the province.
Police continue to hunt the eight suspects, who first opened fire on patrons outside the tavern before moving inside and continuing the attack. The gunmen allegedly searched some patrons, stole cellphones, set two vehicles alight, and fled in two unidentified vehicles. No arrests have been made and the motive remains under investigation, with lines of inquiry including robbery, possible retaliation, and links to illegal mining activity in the area.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Crime Stop line on 08600 10111 or submit tips anonymously via the MySAPS App.
Insight Factor will continue to monitor and report on developments in this case.
