Western Cape Serious Violent Crime (SVC) detectives have arrested a 19-year-old suspect in connection with the deadly shooting at a shebeen in Marikana, Philippi East, which claimed the lives of nine people earlier this month.

The arrest was made on Friday, 23 January 2026, in Zweletemba, Worcester, following ongoing investigations into the shooting that took place in the Marikana informal settlement in the early hours of Saturday, 17 January.

According to police, three suspects entered the shebeen shortly after midnight and opened fire inside the structure.

Six people died at the scene, one died while being transported to a medical facility, and another later succumbed to injuries in the hospital. A further victim who had been seriously wounded died days later while receiving medical treatment. Among the deceased was a woman believed to be the owner of the shebeen.

Police believe the shooting may be extortion-related. Since the incident, a joint team of detectives, crime intelligence and combat units has been pursuing leads and interviewing witnesses.

The arrested suspect is expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Monday, facing nine counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. Investigations are continuing, and police say more arrests are expected.

Western Cape SAPS management has praised the efforts of the investigative team involved in the breakthrough.