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Mpumalanga police said a 13-year-old boy will appear in court on Wednesday on a charge of attempted murder after his 15-year-old cousin was accidentally shot in the face over the weekend.
Police spokesperson, Lieutenant-Colonel Jabu Ndubane, said the incident happened in Verena on Saturday after the boy allegedly stole his father’s firearm from the safe.
He said the cousin sustained a gunshot wound to the check after the gun discharged while the boy was “playing” with it.
The wounded teen was taken to hospital for treatment while the 13-year-old boy was released into the care of his parents.
“The suspect is expected to appear at the Mkobola magistrate's court on Wednesday for attempted murder.
“The suspect's father was also charged for negligent handling of a firearm,” said Ndubane.
Police have cautioned licenced firearm holders to adhere to the regulations in the Firearms Control Act.
