Alex Matlala

Alex Matlala

A 14-year-old Limpopo boy is fighting for his life in Mankweng Hospital after being shot during a clash between police and the community of GaMolepo yesterday.

The boy was caught in the crossfire when police opened fire on a group of protesters who were pelting them with stones.

Limpopo police spokesman Mohale Ramatseba said the police opened fire after they were shot at by one of the protesters.

The boy, whose name has not yet been released, was shot in the hand and body.

A constable, injured by the stone throwers, was also taken to Mankweng Hospital for treatment. He was later discharged.

Police have arrested 25 suspects who will appear at the Mankweng magistrate's court today on charges of public violence.

Ramatseba said the police were expecting to make more arrests soon. The attack on the police happened when they raided a local liquor outlet searching for dangerous weapons as part of the Operation Vulindlela anti-crime campaign, which has been instituted to reduce crime ranging from assault and rape to murder.