A tragic incident has shocked residents of Thabazimbi, Limpopo, after an 11-year-old child accidentally shot and killed a farm worker using his father’s firearm....Click to Read More >>➤

Police have confirmed that the child’s 43-year-old father has been arrested and will face charges related to the negligent handling of a firearm. The firearm and cartridge used in the fatal shooting have been confiscated for forensic analysis as part of an ongoing investigation.

According to Limpopo police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the father and his son are both expected to appear before the Thabazimbi Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 13 October 2025.

Police Condemn Irresponsible Gun Ownership

Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, expressed deep concern over the tragic shooting, describing it as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by careless firearm storage.

“This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder that firearms must be handled with the utmost care and stored securely at all times,” Hadebe said.

She emphasized that parents and guardians must ensure children never have access to firearms, urging responsible gun ownership to prevent similar tragedies.

Call for Public Vigilance

Authorities are urging firearm owners across the province to adhere strictly to safety regulations outlined in the Firearms Control Act, which mandates secure storage and restricted access to weapons.

“This case underlines the need for ongoing public education on firearm safety,” Hadebe added, stressing that negligence could lead to criminal charges and the loss of innocent lives.

Police say investigations are ongoing to determine how the boy accessed the weapon and the exact circumstances that led to the shooting.

The incident has sparked renewed debate in Limpopo about gun safety, parental responsibility, and the need for stricter enforcement of firearm storage laws.

Community members have since called for awareness campaigns to educate households on safe gun handling, especially in rural and farming areas where firearms are commonly kept for security purposes.

Police reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and preventing further avoidable tragedies linked to firearm negligence. ...Click to Read More >>➤