Authorities arrested 19-year-old Bheki Manxiwa on 23 January 2026 in Zweletemba, Worcester, in connection with the Bheki Manxiwa mass shooting. He faces nine counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances following the attack at a shebeen in Marikana informal settlement, Philippi East, on 17 January 2026. Police believe the incident links to extortion.

Manxiwa appeared at the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on 26 January 2026. The shooting claimed the lives of eight men and one woman, believed to be the shebeen co-owner, while one patron remains critically wounded in hospital. Six victims died at the scene, one en route to hospital, and a ninth succumbed later.

Background and Details of the Charges

The Bheki Manxiwa mass shooting involved planning at a house in Philippi East with another suspect named Loyd. They allegedly brought a firearm with an extended magazine, robbed patrons of cellphones and cash, shot the owner, and fired indiscriminately. State prosecutor Nwabisa Sishuba told the court that Manxiwa confessed to two individuals and several witnesses placed him at the scene.

Police initially faced confusion when deputy provincial commissioner Luyanda Damoyi announced two arrests, but spokespeople clarified none occurred at that time. The case classifies as a Schedule 6 offence, and the state opposes bail. Manxiwa initially opted to represent himself but applied for Legal Aid after magistrate Keith Lekeur highlighted the charges' severity. An identity parade is set for two weeks later, once the main witness recovers. Media captured images but must not publish Manxiwa's face.

The court postponed the matter to 2 February 2026 for a bail profile and further investigation, including interviews with three additional witnesses. Western Cape SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa described the arrest as a breakthrough from intelligence-driven operations. NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed the charges.

Police continue searching for two other suspects, including Loyd. Potelwa noted challenges in informal settlements like dense populations and poor lighting complicate investigations. No official response came from Manxiwa's side as of publication.