Pretoria

Pretoria, South Africa's capital, is indirectly implicated in recent news due to mass shootings occurring in townships located near the city. These incidents, reported in December 2025, involve gunmen attacking taverns and hostels, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries. Specifically, one shooting at an unlicensed tavern near Pretoria resulted in 12 deaths, including a young child, and 25 people shot. Another incident in Bekkersdal township, near Johannesburg but relevant due to proximity and similar nature, saw nine killed. These events are newsworthy due to the high number of casualties and the apparent randomness of the attacks. The police are currently investigating, searching for the assailants, and the incidents highlight concerns about gun violence and safety in areas surrounding the capital city. The shootings raise questions about security measures and the prevalence of illegal establishments in these townships.