State withdraws charges against accused in deadly tavern shooting

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)  has decided to withdraw criminal charges against all accused in the Nomzamo tavern shooting incident. 

At least 16 people were shot dead at a tavern in Nomzamo, Soweto, Gauteng in July 2022 when unknown gunmen opened fire on patrons. 

LATEST ON NOMZAMO TAVERN SHOOTING CASE 

The NPA said its decision follows thorough analysis of the contents of the dockets related to tavern shooting incidents around Kliptown and Orlando. 

Six men were arrested and appeared at the Orlando Magistrates’ Court for charges related to the deaths of sixteen people that were killed. 

ALSO READ: Suspects in Nomzamo tavern shooting traced in a SADC country

As previously reported by The South African, Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela said that 23 people were injured and 12 were confirmed dead at the scene and 11 were rushed to hospital and two people died in hospital. The death toll increased to 16 a day later. 

“People were enjoying themselves at the tavern and all of a sudden heard gunshots and others thought a shooting was happening outside. It is only when they realised that people were dropping dead when they pretended that they were also dead or injured and fell on the ground as well,” Mawela said.

NPA spokesperson in Gauteng, Phindi Mjonondwane said the NPA concluded that there are no prospects of a successful prosecution, as requests for further investigation were not complied with due to witnesses fearing for their lives or witnesses subsequently losing their lives.

“The state will however continue with prosecution against Lepolesa Moshoeshoe on attempted murder charges in a Doornkop docket registered in September 2021 and Thembinkosi Kiviet on a murder charge registered with Orlando SAPS in April 2022,” she said. 

ALSO READ: At least 14 people shot and killed at a tavern in Soweto

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