EASTERN CAPE — A recent Mthatha shooting incident at a traditional ceremony has resulted in an attempted murder charge after a 60-year-old local businessman allegedly discharged a firearm, striking an off-duty police officer. The suspect voluntarily surrendered to authorities late Saturday night, prompting a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the discharge of a licensed weapon in a public gathering.
The event unfolded during a traditional ceremony held at the Mazizini locality in Zimbane A/A, Mthatha. According to police reports, the 60-year-old suspect allegedly fired a gun inside a tent. The bullet struck a 39-year-old female victim in her upper body. The victim, who is an off-duty police official stationed in Mthatha, was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment. Authorities have confirmed that she is currently in a stable condition.
Following the discharge of the weapon, the suspect handed himself over to the Mthatha Central Police Station at approximately 23:00 on Saturday, 18 July 2026. Officers subsequently confiscated his licensed firearm, which has been secured as crucial evidence for the ongoing ballistic and forensic investigations. While the exact motive for the shooting remains unclear, investigators are actively working to establish the sequence of events that led to the violence. An attempted murder case has been officially opened at the station.
The 60-year-old businessman is scheduled to make his first appearance at the Mthatha Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 20 July 2026.
Addressing the severity of the event, OR Tambo District Commissioner Major General Norman Modishana publicly condemned the unlawful discharge of a firearm in a public space. Major General Modishana emphasized the dangers of such actions and directed his investigative teams to conduct a thorough and impartial probe into the matter, ensuring that all legal avenues are pursued so that justice is properly served for the victim and the community.
