By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
A police investigation is currently underway after three people sustained gunshot wounds during an alleged robbery that took place at a tavern in Zwelisha(Pienaar), outside Mbombela, in the early hours of Sunday 2 February 2025.
The spokesperson for Mpumalanga SAPS(South African Police Service), Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, said a report indicates that suspects entered the tavern at around 01h00 in the morning and tried to stage a robbery.
“ It is said that during the robbery, the suspects began shooting randomly, and three victims got shot and sustained some gunshot wounds then taken to hospital for treatment. It is not yet clear whether the suspects managed to steal some items during the robbery, however, the investigation is still ongoing,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
The incident was condemned by the Acting Provincial Police Commissioner in Mpumalanga, Maj-Gen(Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, who demanded answers regarding the reasons why the tavern was still operational during the time of the said incident.
“ We really want answers because few weeks ago we had a shooting incident at another liquor store in the same area of Pienaar where many lives were lost. We cannot allow lawlessness to continue like this. It is about the lives of people that we cannot gamble with. Be that as it may, we are working around the clock to ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to book,” said General Mkhwanazi.
According to Lt-Col Ndubane, so far no one has been arrested in connection with the incident. She urged anyone with information that may assist in arresting the suspects to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP.
“ All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
