Eastern Cape boy, seven, shot dead by 11-year-old cousin
Image: 123RF/123RF Premium
A seven-year-old was fatally shot by his 11-year-old cousin while “fiddling” with a gun, believed to be their grandfather's, in the Eastern Cape over the weekend.
Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu said the incident happened on Sunday while three cousins were playing in their home in Siqikini, Libode.
“It is alleged that they found a firearm under a bed,” Naidu said.
“While one of the children, an 11-year-old boy, was fiddling with the firearm, 9mm pistol, a shot went off fatally wounding Kwanele Zide, seven, in his head.”
The 49-year-old grandfather was arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
“He is expected to appear in the Libode magistrate court soon. A case of murder was opened. Ownership of the firearm is yet to be established,” she said.
The 11-year-old minor was not arrested.