Case Opened After Video Shows Bitou Municipality Deputy Mayor Firing Gun Into Air

PLETTENBERG BAY – A criminal case relating to the alleged discharging and pointing of a firearm has been opened at the Kwanokuthula Police Station in Plettenberg Bay following an incident involving Bitou Municipality Deputy Mayor, Nokuzola Kolwapi.

The case follows the circulation of clear video footage, which is being shared. The video shows the Deputy Mayor dancing and repeatedly discharging a firearm into the air, while other people are seen dancing around her during the incident.

The footage is central to the matter and has been brought to the attention of police. A case docket has been registered.

What Is Seen in the Video

In the video, the Deputy Mayor is visibly holding a firearm, moving around, dancing, and firing multiple shots into the air. Several other individuals are present in close proximity, also dancing, as the firearm is discharged.

No injuries are visible in the footage, and no damage is apparent. The exact location and circumstances surrounding the incident have not been formally confirmed.

As with all criminal matters, the Deputy Mayor is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

What the Law Says

South African law strictly regulates the use of firearms.

The Firearms Control Act (Act 60 of 2000) makes it unlawful to discharge a firearm without a valid and lawful reason, such as self-defence or protection of life. Celebratory or recreational firing, including shooting into the air, is prohibited.

In addition:

• Pointing a firearm at any person, whether loaded or unloaded, is a criminal offence.

• Negligent or reckless handling of a firearm that could endanger others is also punishable under the law.

Even when no injuries occur, firing a weapon in a public or social setting is considered dangerous, as bullets fired into the air eventually return to the ground.

Possible Legal Outcomes

If a person is convicted of unlawfully discharging or handling a firearm, the consequences may include:

• A criminal record

• Fines or imprisonment

• Seizure of the firearm

• Being declared unfit to possess a firearm, resulting in the loss of firearm ownership rights

The outcome depends on the findings of the court and the specific charges pursued.

Public Concern

The incident has drawn attention due to the Deputy Mayor’s senior political position. Firearm use by public office bearers is often closely scrutinised, given the expectation that elected officials uphold the law and promote public safety.

At the time of publication, Bitou Municipality had not issued a public statement regarding the incident.