Bekkersdal tavern owner arrested following mass shooting

The owner of a Bekkersdal tavern, the site of a tragic mass shooting on Sunday, is now facing criminal charges following a police investigation into the establishment’s legality.

Nonesi Matwa was arrested for fraud and for operating a liquor outlet without a valid license. The arrest occurred today as high-ranking officials visited the scene to assess the situation and meet with those affected by the violence.

Acting Gauteng Police Commissioner Fred Kekana arrived at the premises earlier on Tuesday alongside Acting Gauteng Premier Jacob Mamabolo. The two leaders met with the families of the nine victims who lost their lives in the weekend attack.

Large crowds of community members gathered outside the Kwanoxolo Tavern, watching as a heavy police presence secured the area and began processing the scene for administrative violations.

While the investigation into the shooting continues, the focus shifted to the tavern’s compliance when authorities discovered discrepancies in its documentation.

The owner’s family expressed outrage during the arrest, arguing that she was being unfairly targeted. They maintained that she was not responsible for the violence, stating she was not the one who "pulled the trigger and killed the patrons."

However, Acting Commissioner Kekana clarified that the arrest is strictly related to the legality of the business operations.

"The report came from the liquor licensing board that the license is fraudulent, so we are going to arrest her so that she can face the music," Kekana said. "She cannot use a fraudulent license and come and play."

Police are currently in the process of seizing and removing all alcohol stored at the premises.

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