The women cocking the firearms in a house.
Image: SAPS
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has warned against illegal handling and misusing firearms after a video circulating on social media depicted two women handling and cocking firearms inside a house.
It remains unclear where the video was taken.
In the video, two women are seen with a firearm each. They can be seen laughing and cocking the firearms at each other. One woman, dressed in a white t-shirt, has a firearm magazine, which has ammunition in it, in her other hand.
The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said from the video, it appears that the women 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. In terms of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, any person handling or using a firearm must be legally authorised to do so and must be in possession of a valid firearm licence or permit where applicable,” Mathe said.
Firearm owners also have a legal responsibility to ensure that their firearms are not accessed or used by individuals who do not possess the necessary competency certificates or firearm licences.
Mathe said the registered owner of a firearm may face criminal charges if found to have allowed unauthorised persons access to the firearm.
“The implications may also be significant where the object involved is a toy gun, imitation firearm, or blank gun, particularly if it is used in a manner that creates fear, intimidation, or the reasonable perception that it is a real firearm,” Mathe said.
She further stated 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.
The public is urged to act responsibly and to report any illegal possession, misuse, or reckless handling of firearms to the nearest police station or anonymously through the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
IOL