Land Party condemns Bekkersdal tavern shooting as an act of terrorism

The recent mass shooting at a tavern in Bekkersdal has sent shockwaves through South Africa, claiming the lives of 11 individuals early on Sunday morning.

Media reports have indicated that patrons were forced to scramble for cover and safety when 12 gunmen, some of them wearing balaclavas, brutally opened fire at a tavern in Bekkersdal Informal Settlement, west of Johannesburg, killing nine and injuring 10 others.

“Out of the blue, unprovoked, they attacked, randomly shot people. Some of the people tried to run away,” Gauteng Deputy Police Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana said.

“Two of them tried to get into the Golf that was taken by the police truck; they were also shot and killed. Inside the tavern, three were shot and killed. Ten were seriously injured through gunshot wounds, and others tried to run away. Three were shot until they managed to reach the clinic. At the clinic, three unfortunately succumbed to the injuries," he added.

In response, the Land Party has declared this act a form of terrorism, contending that right-wing groups may be involved in a broader agenda to destabilise the nation. Amidst growing concerns about safety during the festive season, the party is urging the government to take swift action against those involved.

The horrifying incident took place when a group of approximately 12 assailants, reported to be travelling in a white kombi and a silver sedan, unleashed a barrage of gunfire upon patrons inside a licensed tavern. Besides the tragic loss of life, ten others sustained injuries and have been transported to medical facilities. South African police have launched a manhunt for the suspects, deploying forensic crime scene management and crime intelligence resources to track down those responsible.

In a statement, the police confirmed that investigations are underway to ascertain the motive behind this shocking violence. Acting Gauteng Premier Jacob Mamabolo expressed his full support for the police in their efforts to apprehend the perpetrators. “The Gauteng Provincial Government will provide all the necessary support to the South African Police Service (SAPS) as they conduct a manhunt and investigation to find the perpetrators of this heinous act,” Mamabolo stated, urging law enforcement to leave no stone unturned.

However, the stakes are higher than just a single tragic event, according to the Land Party. They are vehemently calling for the classification of organisations like Afriforum and Solidarity as terrorist entities, alongside demands for the arrest of their leadership, members, and funding sources. They reference a sinister connection between these right-wing groups and foreign agents, positing that their actions contribute to ongoing instability in South Africa.

As the country gears up for the festive season, the Land Party has also issued a caution to the public, urging citizens to avoid crowded venues such as clubs and taverns where more incidents could occur. “We send our deepest condolences to the people of South Africa,” they stated, signalling a sense of urgency and mounting fear in the streets.