Tragedy in Eastern Cape: 11-Year-Old Boy Shot Dead in Mqanduli

Mqanduli, Eastern Cape – A quiet community in Mqanduli has been rocked by tragedy after an 11-year-old boy was shot dead, allegedly by a 14-year-old peer, on Thursday afternoon. The firearm believed to have been used in the fatal shooting reportedly belongs to the older boy’s father.

Police were immediately dispatched to the scene following reports of the shooting. Police spokesperson Welile Matyolo confirmed that officers arrived to find the younger boy deceased.

According to Matyolo, preliminary investigations suggest the incident occurred using a firearm owned by the father of the 14-year-old suspect. The father reportedly confirmed to police that he had left the loaded weapon unsecured in the drawer of a headboard.

Suspect Sought as Murder Investigation Commences

Authorities are currently conducting a widespread search for the 14-year-old boy, who is believed to have fled the scene shortly after the incident.

“We have opened a murder case and are actively searching for the older boy,” Matyolo stated. He added that the investigation will also focus on the circumstances surrounding the unsecured weapon.

The incident has sparked serious concerns within the community regarding gun safety and the accessibility of firearms to minors. Police have urged anyone with information that could assist in the investigation or the locating of the suspect to come forward immediately.