Forensic teams race to link 11 suspects to Bekkersdal tavern massacre

Forensic teams in Gauteng are working around the clock to process evidence that could positively link a group of suspects to the Bekkersdal mass shooting.

Eleven people were arrested on Wednesday for the possession of unlicensed firearms. While authorities are still investigating their possible link to the murder of nine people at the KwaNoxolo Tavern on the West Rand, police believe some of the firearms recovered at a house today may have been used in the commission of the crime.

THE INVESTIGATION
The community remains in shock after unknown assailants opened fire on patrons at the liquor establishment on Sunday. Among those taken into custody are:

Nine Basotho nationals.

One Mozambican national.

One South African national, arrested for harbouring undocumented individuals and potentially defeating the ends of justice.

READ: Eleven arrested following Bekkersdal tavern massacre

The group includes a personof interest previously identified by police. While all suspects currently face charges for the possession of unlicensed firearms, investigators are working to upgrade those charges as evidence mounts.

BALLISTICS AND EVIDENCE
Acting Gauteng Police Commissioner Fred Kekana stated that while there are strong suspicions regarding the group's involvement in the Bekkersdal murders, ballistics tests are required to provide definitive proof.

“The linking and final confirmation will still be done when investigations proceed. Among other things will be through identifying them through an identity parade and through the firearms, because they were found in possession of an AK47 and whether it’s the same firearm linked directly to the murders.”

Police recovered an AK-47, R5 rifles, and a pistol at the residence where the arrests took place These match the specific types of high-calibre weaponry used during the Sunday night attack.