Police note alarming increase in mass murders at unlicensed Gauteng taverns

Police have warned of an alarming increase in mass murders at illegal taverns within Gauteng. 

This year alone has seen four separate incidents where patrons were gunned down in the illegal outlets.

The latest was a mass shooting at a hostel in Atteridgeville, west of Pretoria, where 11 people died, and a further 14 were hospitalised.

Police are currently combing through the scene.

ALSO READ: Death toll ticks up in Atteridgeville hostel mass shooting

Preliminary investigations suggest that three unknown assailants entered the illegal tavern, opened fire and killed 11 people, including the minors aged three, 12 and 16.

Meanwhile, the injured were rushed to two local hospitals, where they are receiving medical attention and assisting law enforcement with investigations. 

National South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said it is concerning that this is happening at illegal establishments.

"We are having ongoing operations, and we are focusing on serious and violent crimes. We are having a problem with ongoing shootings and gun violence in the country," said Mathe.
 
SAPS Tshwane district commissioner general Samuel Thine is expected to brief members of the media on Saturday.