Cops on manhunt after eight killed in Philippi shebeen shooting

A manhunt is under way for three known suspects for their alleged involvement in the mass killing at a shebeen on Protea Road, Marikana informal settlement, after the death toll rose to eight victims on Saturday. 

Police have confirmed that an eighth person died in hospital.

Police spokesperson Frederick van Wyk said the case docket will be updated to eight counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder, which are under investigation.

“With investigations unfolding into the murder of seven men and a woman at a shebeen in Marikana, Philippi East, serious violent crimes detectives have their sights set on three known suspects who are still at large. 

“The shooting incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning and is believed to be linked to extortion-related crimes. Six victims died on the scene, one on the way to the hospital, and the other after arriving at a medical facility.

“Two other victims sustained serious injuries due to the shooting. Of the eight deceased persons, one is a 43-year-old woman who was the owner of the illegal liquor outlet,” said Van Wyk.

Police said the shooting occurred shortly after midnight, at around 00.15am on January 17. 

“The South African Police Service condemns this act of violence in the strongest terms and is committed to tracking down those responsible and ensuring they are held accountable for the crime. The suspects fled the scene, and no arrests have been made,” said police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut.

The Western Cape MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, condemned the mass killing incident. 

Marais said: “According to preliminary reports, three armed males entered the premises while it was operating and opened fire on patrons. Eight people, including the tavern owner, were fatally shot. Two other males sustained serious injuries and are currently in the hospital for medical treatment. This senseless and brutal act of violence has devastated the community.  

“I urge SAPS to deploy a strong, specialised investigation team to ensure that those responsible for this tragedy are swiftly identified, apprehended, and made to face the full might of the law. Communities are living in constant fear as criminals run rampant. The SAPS must urgently resource all priority precincts and fill vacancies so that all serious crimes are solved, and those responsible are prosecuted.”

Anyone with information that may assist police is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or share information anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application. All information will be treated as confidential.