Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
A game of cops and robbers took a dangerous turn in the Entumbane suburb when a group of children discovered a fully loaded firearm buried underground.
The incident, which occurred on November 25, 2024, left the community both shocked and relieved, as the firearm was found to be jammed from rust, preventing it from firing.
The alarming discovery was made by an 11-year-old boy from Emakhandeni suburb while playing with friends near the Woza-Woza turn-off in Entumbane.
According to a source who wished to remain anonymous, the children were intrigued by something unusual sticking out of the ground.
“Curiosity got the better of them, and as they approached, they discovered a gun. Fortunately, it was jammed from rust and could not fire,” the source explained.
After finding the firearm, one of the boys mistakenly took it home, believing it to be a toy. It was only when his sister noticed that it was a real firearm that immediate action was taken.
“Quick thinking and instinct kicked in, and they immediately reported the matter to the police,” the source added.
Bulawayo Provincial Zimbabwe Republic Police Deputy spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the incident and noted that investigations into the origins of the gun are currently underway.
“Police promptly arrived at the scene to secure the weapon and begin their investigation into its origins,” Msebele stated.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of children in the area and the potential dangers posed by abandoned firearms. Community members are calling for increased vigilance and awareness to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Zim GBC New©2024