Teenager confesses to deadly Philippi East mass shooting

A teenager confessed to being linked to a deadly mass shooting in Philippi East.

Police believed Bheki Manxiwa was one of three gunmen who shot and killed nine people at a tavern in the Marikana informal settlement a week ago.

Manxiwa made his first appearance in the Athlone Magistrate's Court on Monday.

The 19-year-old was arrested in Zwelethemba township in Worcester on Friday.

Police believed the attack was an extortion hit.

Western Cape National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said the accused was linked to the crime through confessions he made to several State witnesses.

"The case has been postponed until 2 February 2026 for a full bail profile and further investigation. This is a Schedule 6 matter, meaning the onus is on the accused to show to the court that it’s in the interest of justice for him to be released on bail. The State will oppose his bail application," Ntabazalila said.