Gun safety concerns raised after viral video of Bitou Municipality Deputy Mayor

Gun Free South Africa has condemned the conduct of Bitou Municipality Deputy Mayor Nokuzola Kolwapi after video footage surfaced of her allegedly discharging a firearm in public, warning that it reflects a serious lapse in leadership and public safety.

The incident reportedly took place in Kwanokuthula, Plettenberg Bay, during a traditional celebration marking her son’s return from initiation school.

Gun Free South Africa's Executive Director Dr Stanley Maphosa says firing a weapon in a public space (whether legal, illegal or even claimed to be a toy) creates fear, confusion and risk, especially when carried out by an elected official.

"What we know is that weapons are created to kill, even though this one did not kill anyone, even though somebody says that it's not a real firearm, just an object that really resembles one of the firearms. 

"Surely it really shows how casual guns are treated in the public life and whether they are illegal or illegal, being carried and displayed without regard to the risk they create is a very, very serious concern.

"For the children to see a leader doing that in public is not acceptable."

Police in Plettenberg Bay have confirmed that a case has been opened, but the details have not yet been disclosed.

To listen to Dr Stanley Maphosa in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk's Africa Melane, click the audio below: