Little boy shot after gun found

A BOY, aged seven, is recovering in the Uitenhage Provincial Hospital after he was shot in the chest, allegedly by a 12-year-old.

Although it is believed that Friday's shooting was accidental, the 12-year-old, who cannot be named, must appear in the KwaNobuhle Magistrate's Court this morning on a charge of attempted murder.

Proceedings will be in-camera and the youngster will be accompanied by an adult.

Meanwhile, the 12-year-old's guardian and owner of the gun was arrested for contravention of the Firearms Control Act. He, too, will appear in court today.

Anele Mabomba, a Grade 1 pupil at Mngcunube Lower Primary School in KwaNobuhle near Uitenhage, was shot in the chest at about 9am on Friday. The bullet narrowly missed his vital organs.

Anele was playing at a friend's house, just metres from his Mzamane Street home.

Warrant Officer Gerda Swart said it is believed a shot was fired accidentally when a youngster was playing with the gun.

The victim's grandfather, Gibson Mabomba, 58, said he was angry with the gun owner. – Kathryn Kimberley