Uncle mistakes nephew for wild animal, shoots him

Police in Mochudi are investigating a case in which a 63-year-old man allegedly shot his nephew after mistaking him for a wild animal. Mochudi Police Station Commander Superintendent Simon Sitale told The Midweek Sun that the incident occurred on New Year.

“The incident occurred on the 1st of January at night. Our preliminary investigations have indicated that the uncle thought at the time of firing the gun his nephew was in the house where he left him. They were staying together at Tshele Farms where they were employed,” said Sitale adding that the suspect was taken for questioning and later released.

The station commander said information gathered is that some wild animals especially jackals have been terrorising the livestock that they were looking after. He explained that on the fateful day the uncle had thought his injured nephew could be one of the troublesome animals.

“The injured man is at Princess Marina Hospital. I however cannot state the extent of the injury and that can only be done by a certified medical doctor. The duo is from Mmashoro village.”

Sitale stated that the gun used belonged to the employer of the duo. The employer, Sitale said, is the one who reported the matter to the police. He said investigations into the natter are still ongoing. Sitale cautioned members of the public not to be careless when handling guns. He said a gun is regarded as a lethal weapon which means it is capable of taking a life.

“When you fire a gun you must ensure that beyond your target there are other objects that might get hurt. Even when firing at your target, make sure the target is clearly identified.”

On a different matter, Sitale said they are investigating a fatal accident that claimed a life of 21 year old man from Kgosing Ward in Oodi-Matebeleng. “The accident occurred along the A1 road. He was hit by a Mercedes Benz motor vehicle which was heading to the north. It appears the deceased got on the road and got hit by the motor vehicle.”