Mpumalanga Teenager Shot By 13-Year-Old Cousin In Firearm Incident

A 15-year-old boy is recovering in hospital after allegedly being shot by his 13-year-old cousin in a tragic incident in Langkloof, Verena.

Mpumalanga police are investigating the case of attempted murder and negligent handling of a firearm following the shocking event on April 5, 2025.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Celebrities Urge Justice for Rape Survivors In April 5 Protest

The Incident

On Saturday, April 5, 2025, police responded to a distress call from the Verena clinic after reports surfaced that a 15-year-old boy had suffered a gunshot wound to his cheek.

 Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim lying in bed, with medical staff confirming that he had been shot by his younger cousin. 

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Grandson 21 Accidentally Stabs Grandfather To Death During Altercation With Father

According to Mpumalanga provincial police spokesperson Colonel Jabu Ndubane, preliminary investigations revealed that the 13-year-old suspect had stolen his father’s safe keys, took out a firearm, and was allegedly playing with it when the firearm discharged. 

The bullet struck the victim in the cheek, resulting in the boy being rushed to the hospital for medical treatment. 

13-Year-Old Facing Attempted Murder Charges

Following the incident, the 13-year-old suspect was taken into police custody before being released into the care of his parents. 

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Grandson 21 Accidentally Stabs Grandfather To Death During Altercation With Father

The young teenager is now facing charges of attempted murder and will appear in court at the Mkobola Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. 

The investigation also revealed that the suspect’s father is being charged with negligent handling of a firearm, as he failed to secure the weapon properly. 

Authorities Urge Responsible Gun Ownership 

Mpumalanga’s acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has strongly condemned the incident and warned licensed firearm holders about the potential dangers of improper firearm storage and handling. 

He emphasized the importance of adhering to the regulations outlined in the Firearms Control Act, noting that firearms in the wrong hands can lead to devastating outcomes. 

He said the unfortunate incident should serves as a stark reminder for parents and gun owners to ensure that firearms are securely stored away from children and unauthorized individuals.

---

For SA Crime News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagra