'It’s us residents who die': Bekkersdal community blames illegal mining turf wars for tavern massacre

Residents of Bekkersdal say Sunday morning’s mass shooting—which left nine people dead and ten others injured—is not an isolated incident for the area.

Speaking to EWN on condition of anonymity, several community members expressed their belief that the perpetrators are illegal miners, or "zama zamas," currently embroiled in a violent turf war.

One resident claimed that similar attacks have occurred at three other local taverns recently, though those incidents did not receive significant public attention.

"Almost every weekend, we know that we will find people who have been killed," the resident said.

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

The community attributes the escalating violence to a lack of police visibility in the township. There is a growing sense of frustration that innocent bystanders are bearing the brunt of the conflict between mining factions.

"People died there, and what hurts the most is that it’s not the zama zamas who die; it’s us, the residents of this area," the resident added.

In response to the perceived failure of local law enforcement to contain the violence, the community is now calling for the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to restore order.