Police have issued a strong warning against the illegal handling and reckless misuse of firearms after a video surfaced on social media showing women handling and cocking firearms inside a house.
The @SAPoliceService said it was deeply concerned by the incident, noting that the women seen in the video appeared not to be properly trained or authorised to handle firearms.
Police warned that reckless firearm handling poses a serious threat not only to those involved, but also to members of the public.
SAPS emphasised that firearms are dangerous weapons and should never be used irresponsibly, displayed carelessly, or handled for entertainment or social media content.
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, where applicable, must possess a valid firearm licence or permit.
SAPS also reminded firearm owners that they carry a legal responsibility to ensure their firearms are not accessed or used by people who do not have the required competency certificates or firearm licences.
The registered owner of a firearm could face criminal charges if it is found that they allowed unauthorised individuals access to the weapon.
Police further noted that even toy guns, imitation firearms, or blank guns can result in serious legal consequences if they are used in a manner that causes fear, intimidation, or creates the reasonable perception that the object is a real firearm.
SAPS has urged members of the public 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 hotline on 08600 10111.
@SAPoliceService
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