Six people were shot dead in Kanana Township, near Orkney in the City of Matlosana, during a series of violent attacks that unfolded on Friday night, 1 May 2026, and into the following morning.
Tavern Attacks and Community Chaos
The violence began at the Refilwe Inn Tavern in Extension 14. Two armed men entered the venue and opened fire, killing two people immediately and injuring several others as patrons scrambled for safety.
Survivors from the first scene were transported to Grace Khomo Clinic for medical treatment. North West police spokeswoman Colonel Adéle Myburgh confirmed the attack, stating that two male victims were critically injured while two others were declared dead on the scene by Emergency and Medical Rescue Services (EMRS).
Colonel Myburgh further noted that no property was robbed
during the incident. Police are currently investigating two cases of murder and two cases of attempted murder related to this attack.
While officers were processing the scene in Extension 14, further gunfire erupted in nearby Extension 13. Police discovered another deadly assault at Salom Tavern, where suspects allegedly used the same method of firing randomly at patrons before fleeing.
Two victims, believed to be siblings, were killed at Salom Tavern. One person died inside the venue, and a second succumbed to their injuries outside the gate.
Further Discoveries and Local Fear
The death toll rose as another victim was discovered two to three streets away from Salom Tavern with multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities have not yet confirmed if this death is linked to the tavern shooting.
The violence extended into Saturday, 2 May 2026, when another body was found in an area known as Phatsima, near Extension 13. Police forensic teams combed that scene until approximately 4am.
Dozens of people were affected across both attacks, with many sustaining injuries to their arms, legs, and other parts of the body. The atmosphere in the township remains tense, with one resident stating, We are scared. Incidents like this build you question how safe we really are. Are we even safe in our own homes? I am seriously concerned
.
A History of Violence
Kanana Township has seen a recurring cycle of high-profile violence. Earlier this year, businessman Sipho Donga died at Tshepong Hospital in Jouberton, near Klerksdorp, after being attacked at his home.
in November 2025, former ANC councillor Tebogo Sepale was found dead from a gunshot wound to the head. Police, EMS, and forensic teams continue to investigate the most recent events to determine if there is a connection between the multiple scenes.
Further developments may depend on forensic evidence gathered from the scenes in Extension 13, and 14. Police may seek further witness testimony to identify the suspects who carried out the random shootings.
For more regional updates, you can read about flood chaos shutting down major North West roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were killed in total during the weekend’s events?
Six people were shot dead in Kanana Township.
Was anything stolen during the attack at Refilwe Inn Tavern?
According to Colonel Adéle Myburgh, no property was robbed.
Where were the survivors of the first attack taken for treatment?
Survivors were rushed to Grace Khomo Clinic for medical treatment.
How can communities better protect public social spaces from random acts of violence?
