The Dj was gunned down at the tavern by patron after he stopped playing music and started packing his equipment because it was time to close at Masoyi near White River last night.
Bridagier Donald Mdhluli confirmed that the police in Masoyi are investigating a horrific incident that occurred on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, 24 December 2025 around 23h30, at a tavern in Mganduzweni Trust, Masoyi, near White River.
Brigadier Mdhluli stated that police were conducting patrols when saw people moving out of the tavern and stopped there to find out what was happening in that establishment, after stopping the police discovered that two individuals were shot dead inside the property.
"According to a report, members of the SAPS from Masoyi were on duty patrolling along the R538 Road, as part of the 2025/2026 Operation Festive Season. It was during this time when members noticed a group of people coming out from the tavern. Members then stopped and upon investigating, they discovered that a shooting had occurred inside the establishment.
“Tragically, lifeless bodies of two male persons were found with injuries. Medical personnel were summoned to the scene and unfortunately certified both individuals dead,” said Mdhluli.
He mentioned that police discovered that one of the deceased was a Dj who shot by one of the patrons because stopped playing music at the tavern and then after that the perpetrator shot himself dead too.
"Preliminary reports indicate that the incident unfolded when the DJ, who had been playing music then packed his equipment. The patrons are said to have insisted that he should continue playing the music because it was Christmas time.
"The DJ then reportedly indicated that it was time for closure of the tavern. Despite his attempts to explain, tensions escalated. A patron, aged 28, allegedly drew a firearm and shot the DJ before turning the gun on himself.
“A case of murder has been opened along with an inquest. The firearm involved in this tragic event has not been recovered yet. Preliminary reports further indicate that the tavern is licensed,” added Mdhluli.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has vehemently condemned this senseless act of violence. The General has further called for an intensive investigation to uncover how a firearm was permitted access to the liquor premises, as the presence of dangerous weapons in such places are strictly prohibited.
“The increase in shooting incidents within liquor premises is alarming and detrimental to our society. It is very crucial that tavern owners take their responsibility to ensure safety of their patrons and employees. Failure to comply with safety regulations goes with legal consequences for the owners. A life has been lost here, and we cannot allow such tragic incident without consequences,” said General Mkhwanazi.