Police have made several arrests in connection with illegal firearms as investigations continue into the deadly tavern shooting in Bekkersdal, which claimed nine lives last month.

Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that five suspects were arrested in Westonaria on December 24 while in possession of illegal firearms.

• Also read: Bekkersdal tavern owner arrested for operating with fraudulent licence

“An investigation is underway to determine whether these firearms are linked to other crimes, including the Bekkersdal shooting,” Masondo stated.

• Also read: UPDATE: MEC visits victims of Bekkersdal shooting

These arrests follow a mass shooting that occurred shortly before 01:00 on December 21 at a tavern in Tambo Section, Bekkersdal. Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed that 12 suspects allegedly opened fire inside the tavern, resulting in the deaths of nine individuals and injuries to at least 10 others, who were subsequently taken to medical facilities for treatment.

• Read the initial article here: Nine killed, 10 injured in Bekkersdal shooting

A manhunt for the remaining suspects has been launched, and investigations are ongoing.