TZANEEN – Police in Lephalale have launched a manhunt for a 30-year-old man believed to be the sixth suspect linked to a fatal tavern shooting that took place in March.

Five suspects are already in custody, but Mluleki Sipho Mzobe remains at large.

A warrant of arrest has been issued for him in connection with the murder.

The incident

On the evening of March 27, police responded to a shooting at a local tavern in Onverwacht Section, Lephalale.

At the scene, officers found a 32-year-old male victim lying on his back. He had sustained three gunshot wounds to the chest and two to the back of his head.

Emergency Medical Services were called, but the victim was declared dead on arrival.

Suspects flee, five arrested

Six male suspects fled the scene on foot immediately after the shooting.

A murder case was opened at the local police station.

The next day, police tracked down and arrested four suspects at a hideout in Onverwacht Section.

Two other suspects were believed to have fled to Soweto in Gauteng.

The manhunt continued, and on April 2, 2026, a fifth suspect was arrested in the Groblersdal policing area under the Sekhukhune District.

All five arrested suspects have made several court appearances and remain in police custody.

Suspect still wanted

Mluleki Sipho Mzobe, aged 30, also known by the nickname “Baba,” is still on the run.

Appeal to the public

Police are urging anyone with information on Mzobe’s whereabouts to come forward.

Contact Investigating Officer Constable Virginia Nkoati on 079 151 9244, or call Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or visit the nearest police station, or use the MySAPS App.

Police investigations are ongoing.