The bail hearing of a man accused of shooting students at Walter Sisulu University (WSU) took a dramatic turn as he claimed he fired “warning shots” out of fear, never intending to harm anyone. The accused, whose name has not yet been disclosed, insisted he acted in self-defense, fearing for his life during a student protest.
“Warning Shots Fired in Fear”
During his bail application, the accused told the court that his intention was only to fire warning shots. “I had no intention of injuring or killing any student,” he said. “I fired those shots out of fear and shock.” He added that he would be “very sad” if the bullets that struck the students came from his firearm.
However, the prosecution challenged his account, questioning the legality of the firearm used. The accused claimed the gun belonged to his late father and was licensed under his name. The state dismissed this argument, pointing out that the accused had previously been denied a firearm license in 2010.
Prosecution Questions Self-Defense Claim
The state argued that the accused’s actions were unjustified, noting that there was no evidence of forced entry into his residence. “There was no sign of a break-in—no broken windows or doors kicked down,” the prosecutor said. “The students who approached him were peaceful. So, whose life was in danger?”
The court also heard that the students had revolted against the accused because they wanted to cohabit in the residence. The state will continue cross-examining the accused tomorrow.
Students Demand Justice
Outside the courthouse, WSU students gathered in protest, wearing black T-shirts with the slogan “Justice for Sisonke Mbolekwa,” the deceased student. The victim’s family was also present, seeking closure as the legal proceedings unfold.
The case has drawn significant attention, raising concerns about gun control and student safety on campuses. The bail hearing continues as the court weighs the accused’s self-defense claims against the prosecution’s argument of reckless endangerment.
