Learner (16) charged for possession of unlicensed firearm
A boy from a Wentworth school has been charged with possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition after a pistol was reportedly discovered in his school bag.
A 16-YEAR-OLD learner from a local school in Wentworth is facing charges for possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition after a gun was allegedly found in his school bag yesterday (September 12).
Also read: Police conduct surprise search at Wentworth Primary
Learner arrested on school premises
In a swift and decisive response to a potentially dangerous situation, the boy was arrested at the school premises.
The incident happened around 12:30 when members of the Visible Policing Shift ‘B’ were on routine patrol.
The police were alerted following a complaint that a learner was carrying a firearm and ammunition on school premises.
Police spokesperson Captain Mbuso Gumede from Wentworth said that when the police arrived at the school, they were directed by a teacher to a room where the learner in question was located.
“Upon searching the learner’s school bag, officers discovered a black pistol with a serial number and six live rounds of ammunition wrapped in a jacket.
“The minor was immediately taken into custody. Both the firearm and ammunition were confiscated by the police. The learner was transported to the Wentworth Police Station.
“Following the arrest, he was released into his parents’ custody and is scheduled to appear in Durban Magistrate’s Court soon,” said Gumede.
Safety warning for parents
Wentworth police have urged parents to be vigilant about their children’s behaviour, both before and after school.
Gumede added, “It is recommended that parents check their children’s school bags discreetly for dangerous items such as knives, vapes, cigarettes or illicit drugs. The police will also conduct unannounced school searches and enforce safety protocols in consultation with school principals.”
Station commander’s comments
Colonel Sinayo Mtshali applauded the teacher’s action for alerting the police.
“The teacher’s alertness prevented what could have been a tragic incident. Our officers acted promptly, ensuring that the firearm and ammunition were seized and that the learner was taken into custody,” said Mtshali.
Mtshali also praised the police for their rapid response to the complaint, emphasising the importance of ensuring a safe environment for both teachers and learners.
For any information or tips, the public is encouraged to contact CrimeStop on 0860 010 111 or Wentworth Police Station on 031 541 6240/6241/6242.
For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
