Pandemonium broke out when an armed man randomly fired shots in a Tekwane South tavern on Thursday night, April 24, seriously injuring four.

According to police, three men entered the tavern around 20:50 and bought a drink before taking a seat. A short while later, one of the men stood up and left the premises.

“When he returned, he was armed. He allegedly began firing shots indiscriminately, seriously injuring four patrons,” explained provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli. He added that people inside the tavern fled in panic.

“During the chaos, the armed suspects allegedly stole several items including a Huawei smart phone, belonging to an employee who was one of the victims injured in the shooting. They also stole meat and alcohol before fleeing the scene,” said Mdhluli.

Emergency services were called and the victims were rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

The police have opened a case of business robbery, but no arrests have been made. At the time of publishing, no updates were available on the condition of those that were injured.

The acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, has strongly condemned the incident, adding that police are working tirelessly to identify and apprehend the suspects.

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Authorities are appealing to the public to come forward with any information that may lead to an arrest. Anyone with information can call the investigating officer, Detective Seargent Brenda Nkosi, on 079 277 1504.

Alternatively, members of the public can utilise the MySAPS app to report information, or call the police’s tollfree number: 08600 10111.

“All information received will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous,” said Mdhluli.