Tragedy Strikes Near Pretoria: 11 Killed in Ruthless Hostel Shooting

A shocking attack in Saulsville, just 18 kilometres west of Pretoria, has left 11 people dead, including a three-year-old child, and 14 others hospitalized after gunmen opened fire at a local hostel on Saturday morning. South African police confirmed that 25 people were shot during the incident, which has intensified concerns over the nation’s escalating violence.

Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe described the attack as “quite an unfortunate incident.” Ten victims died at the scene, while another succumbed to injuries in hospital. Among the deceased were a 12-year-old and a 16-year-old, highlighting the devastating toll on innocent lives.

Authorities say the gunmen arrived at the hostel around 4:30 a.m. and opened fire indiscriminately on a group of men gathered there. Police were only notified about the attack around 6:00 a.m. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown, and no arrests have yet been made.

This attack is part of a growing wave of violent incidents in South Africa, a country grappling with organized criminal networks and rampant illegal firearms despite many citizens owning licensed guns for personal protection. Data from law enforcement shows that an average of 63 people were killed each day between April and September 2025, underscoring the gravity of the nation’s security challenges.

Authorities have deployed maximum resources to investigate the incident and apprehend those responsible. “We are still investigating the motive, but maximum resources have been deployed to arrest those behind this incident,” Mathe stated.

The attack has left residents and local leaders in shock, calling for urgent measures to ensure justice for the victims and prevent similar tragedies in the future. Communities are being urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as the country confronts the rising tide of violent crime.

This horrifying incident serves as a stark reminder of South Africa’s ongoing security struggles, where illegal firearms, gang violence, and socio-economic challenges continue to endanger ordinary citizens. Police have pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore safety to the affected areas.