Cape Town – Police in KwaZulu Natal arrested a 15-year-old boy after he shot and fatally wounded his brother, 14, at Stanger Manor in KwaDukuza on Monday evening.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed the incident and said that the teenage boy was arrested on Thursday.
“Three teenage brothers, aged 11, 14 and 15 years old were reportedly in the house when the eldest brother found a firearm. It is reported that as they were playing with the gun, a shot went off and fatally wounded the 14-year-old.
“Investigations have already begun into the circumstances that led to the children getting hold of the firearm,” Netshiunda said.
The gun reportedly belonged to the boys’ late father.
Following the incident, police reminded holders of licensed firearms to store their weapons in accordance with the law and ensure that no other person has access to such firearms.
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“The next of kin of deceased persons who owned firearms are also urged to timeously inform the police that the owner has passed on and the police will outline the procedure on how to retain the firearm or dispose of it legally.
“A person who inherits a firearm has options to either donate the firearm by nominating or offering it to a family member or any person, provided that such a person is in compliance with the law and possesses a licence to own such a firearm.
“Deceased person’s firearms can also be handed over or sold to a registered firearm dealer or an individual or be surrendered to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for destruction. Heirs of the deceased person’s firearms may alternatively apply for the deactivation of the firearm with the SAPS.”
Police added that ignorance of the law “is never an excuse and anyone who is found to have failed to execute their legal responsibilities will be met with the wrath of the law”.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
