Limpopo police are investigating a murder case after a 12-year-old boy allegedly shot and killed his three-year-old brother at their home in Mankweng, east of Polokwane, on Saturday.
Police spokesman Motlafela Majopelo said in a statement that the older boy found his father’s weapon, and aimed at his younger brother.
According to Majopelo, the children’s mother was working elsewhere in the house when she heard a gunshot and investigated. The younger child was rushed to a local clinic where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
“The father was not home at the time of the incident. Police have since seized the firearm, ”says Majopelo.
Lieutenant General. Nneke Ledwaba, the provincial police commissioner, condemned the incident and demanded that steps be taken against the father for keeping a firearm without complying with the Firearms Control Act.
“I urge all lawful firearm owners to keep it in lockers at all times to prevent unauthorized access,” Ledwaba said.
According to Majopelo, the case against the child will be handled in accordance with the processes for children who violate the law. Probation officers are already acting accordingly to follow the right procedure, he says.
The investigation is ongoing.
