Mbabane: The country on June 2, 2020 woke up to sad media reports that a 15 years old boy has been shot and wounded by police for breaking COVID-19 regulations.
The Coordination Assembly for Non-Governmental Organizations (CANGO) has called for a transparent investigation on the matter regarding the shooting so that the public can know what led to the shooting.
In a statement sent to this publication CANGO said “We were also alarmed to learn through newspapers that a boy was shot in the arm by police in Shiselweni. Whilst we are not privy to the details of the matter, we plead for transparent investigations so that the public is fully made aware what led to the shooting so that due processes are followed and any wrongdoing is prosecuted”.
According to reports a lone policeman approached a group of boys playing football on a dusty field near Gege. The Times of eSwatini reported their game was being watched by two adults. It said the police officer allegedly fired his weapon to disperse the spectators.
‘The startled youngsters are said to have trampled on each other as they ran away, while one of the boys aged 15 reportedly sustained a serious injury after he got shot during the skirmish.
‘The youngster was struck by a bullet in his left arm while running away from the police officer.’ He was detained in hospital.
Police have said they have launched an investigation regarding the shooting.
Eswatini has been on a partial lockdown since 27 March 2020. Gatherings of more than 20 people are banned and people are urged to keep a distance of one meter from one another.
Is also stated that all sporting activities, games, soccer and social tournaments were prohibited. However the Swazi police and other security forces have been criticized for their brutality during the lockdown.
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