The South African Police Service has issued a stern warning after a video showing women allegedly cocking and handling firearms inside a house went viral on social media, raising concerns over the possible illegal and reckless use of guns.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the footage appeared to show women who may not be properly trained or authorised to handle firearms.
“SAPS therefore warns that the reckless handling and misuse of firearms pose a serious danger to both the individuals involved and members of the public,” Mathe said.
She reminded the public that, under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, anyone handling or using a firearm must be legally authorised to do so and must possess a valid firearm licence or permit where required.
Law compels firearm owners to carry responsibility
Mathe said firearm owners also carry legal responsibilities to ensure that their weapons are not accessed or used by individuals who do not have the necessary competency certificates or firearm licences.
“The registered owner of a firearm may face criminal charges if found to have allowed unauthorised persons access to the firearm,” she said.
She added that even the use of toy guns, imitation firearms or blank guns could have serious legal implications if they are used in a way that creates fear, intimidation or the impression that they are real firearms.
“SAPS wishes to remind members of the public that firearms are not toys and should never be used recklessly, displayed irresponsibly, or handled for entertainment purposes, including for social media content,” Mathe said.
Police have urged members of the public to report any illegal possession, misuse or reckless handling of firearms to their nearest police station or anonymously through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
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- South African Police Service (SAPS) warned against reckless and illegal firearm handling after a viral video showed women allegedly cocking and handling guns indoors.
- Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe emphasized that the women appeared unauthorized and possibly untrained to use firearms.
- Under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, only legally authorized individuals with valid licenses or permits may handle firearms.
- Registered firearm owners face criminal charges if they allow unauthorized access or use of their weapons.
- SAPS urged the public to report any illegal firearm possession or misuse and reminded that handling firearms or even imitation guns irresponsibly can have serious legal consequences.
National police spokesperson Brigadier
"SAPS therefore warns that the reckless handling and misuse of firearms pose a serious danger to both the individuals involved and members of the public,"
"
"SAPS wishes to remind members of the public that firearms are not toys and should never be used recklessly, displayed irresponsibly, or handled for entertainment purposes, including for social media content,"
Police have urged members of the public to report any illegal possession, misuse or reckless handling of firearms to their nearest police station or anonymously through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
ALSO READ: I fired a toy gun, Malema tells court as he takes witness stand
