Eight Dead in Pienaar: Second Suspect Taken Into Custody

Mpumalanga police have arrested a second suspect in connection with the horrific shooting outside a tavern in Pienaar that claimed eight lives.

Details of the Arrest

Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, confirmed the arrest of a 43-year-old man on Tuesday afternoon.

During the arrest:

• Confiscations: Police seized three firearms, although no ammunition was found.
• The suspect is expected to appear in court soon.

This follows the arrest of Bongani Patrick Nkosi, 39, who was apprehended on Sunday night in Pienaar. Nkosi appeared in the Kabokweni Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

Also Read: Mpumalanga Tavern Massacre: Suspect Arrested Following Shooting of Eight People

The Pienaar Tavern Shooting Incident

The tragic shooting occurred on Saturday at around 4 a.m. near a tavern in Pienaar.

• Fatalities:
  • Six people, including five men and one woman, were pronounced dead at the scene.
  • Two others succumbed to their injuries in hospital.
• Injuries:
  • Three victims were hospitalized, with one later discharged. Two others remain under medical care.

Police discovered two Volkswagen Polos riddled with bullet holes at the scene. One of the deceased was found inside one of the vehicles.

Lieutenant Colonel Ndubane stated that the motive behind the shooting is still unclear, and investigations are ongoing.

Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, Jackie Macie, condemned the senseless violence, urging swift action:

“We are once more appealing that the police be given space and time to get to the bottom of the shootings. The perpetrators must be urgently arrested.”

Also Read : Man Arrested for Mpumalanga Mass Tavern Shooting That Left Eight Dead

Macie also called on liquor establishments to prioritize the safety of their patrons and extended condolences to the families of the deceased.

Nkosi’s bail application has been postponed to January 21, 2025, and he remains in custody. The second suspect’s court appearance details are yet to be confirmed.

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