'Endless gunshots': Bekkersdal tavern owner recounts deadly mass shooting

The owner of a tavern in Bekkersdal, on the West Rand, suspects a recent mass shooting at her establishment was a targeted hit.

On Sunday morning, 12 armed men stormed the business and began shooting at random. The attack left nine people dead and 10 others injured.

Tavern owner Nonesi Matwa says the suspects robbed patrons of their mobile phones and stole cash and alcohol from the premises. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

Matwa, who has operated the business since 2008, has been forced to close the tavern following the tragedy. She noted that security has always been a priority, with two guards stationed at the entrance to search patrons. A prominent sign outside the building clearly states "No Weapons" and "No Under 18s."

Despite these measures, Matwa says they were ambushed just as she was preparing to close for the night.

"I hid myself and all I can hear is endless gunshots," Matwa recalled.

"I could hear them screaming, asking patrons for their phones, and I stayed hiding."

The suspects reportedly wore balaclavasto conceal their identities during the assault. When the gunfire finally ceased, Matwa emerged to a scene of devastation.

"When I went outside, I saw many people lying on the floor. There were others checking for their relatives, and I also checked and discovered they had died," she said.

Matwa remains uncertain about when, or if, her business will reopen to the public.

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