The South African Police Service (SAPS) has expressed serious concern over a video circulating on social media showing women allegedly handling and cocking firearms inside a house.
Police say that, from the footage, it appears the individuals may not be properly trained or authorised to handle firearms, raising concerns about public safety and legal compliance.
SAPS has warned that reckless handling and misuse of firearms pose a serious danger to both those involved and members of the public.
Under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, anyone who handles or uses a firearm must be legally authorised and in possession of a valid firearm licence or permit where applicable. Authorities also stressed that firearm owners carry a legal duty to ensure their weapons are not accessed or used by unlicensed or untrained individuals.
Police further cautioned that registered firearm owners could face criminal charges if they are found to have allowed unauthorised access to their weapons.
SAPS also noted that similar legal consequences may apply even in cases involving toy guns, imitation firearms, or blank-firing weapons, particularly where such objects are used in a manner that creates fear or the perception of a real firearm.
The police service has urged members of the public to treat firearms responsibly, stressing that they are not toys and should never be used recklessly, displayed irresponsibly, or handled for entertainment purposes, including creating social media content.
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