The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo have arrested a 50-year-old who allegedly assaulted a 16-year-old boy with a gun in his hand outside a shopping centre this week.
In a video that has been making circulation on social media, the teenager is seen dropped down on the floor at the Groblersdal Game Centre by the man holding a gun in his hand. The man is seen kicking the boy while he was lying down and stomped on his chest.
The incident took place around 06:30pm, according to the police statement release on Thursday. “The argument which reportedly turned violent and was captured on the video that went viral, broke out after the victim and his cousin allegedly wanted to use the same seasoning as the suspect. The suspect then became furious and started assaulting the teenager while pointing at him with a firearm,” said Brigadier Matlafela Mojapelo, the police spokesperson.
“The other shoppers watched helplessly as the suspect assaulted the boy until he eventually left him lying on the ground. The victim was later taken to hospital and was later discharged.,” Mojapelo added.
“We will not tolerate incidents of gender-based violence and attacks on our children and we will ensure that justice prevails for the victim. In the meantime, we urge community members to remain calm and allow us space to deal with the matter,” said Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
Mojapelo said the man will appear at the Grobleresdal Magistrates Court on Monday to face charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and pointing of a firearm.