Zuko Komisa
- Police are investigating a social media video showing untrained women handling and cocking firearms in a residential setting.
- Registered owners face criminal charges if they allow unlicensed individuals to access or use their weapons.
- Authorities have stressed that firearms including imitations must never be used as props for entertainment or online content.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has issued a stern warning following the circulation of a video depicting women recklessly handling firearms.
The footage suggests a lack of professional training, prompting the police to remind the public that the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 mandates that only authorised, licensed individuals may handle such weapons.
Misuse of this nature poses a severe risk to both the individuals involved and the general public.
The police emphasised that the legal burden rests heavily on the registered firearm owner. Under current legislation, owners must ensure their weapons are never accessed by anyone lacking the necessary competency certificates.
If an owner is found to have permitted unauthorised access for social media stunts or any other purpose, they may face formal criminal charges and the potential forfeiture of their licences.
SAPS further clarified that the law also applies to toy guns, blank-firing weapons, and imitations if they are used to intimidate or create the perception of a real threat.
Categorically stating that “firearms are not toys,” the police urged citizens to stop using weapons for entertainment. Any reckless handling or illegal possession should be reported immediately to the nearest station or via the anonymous Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111.
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