A South African boy aged 13 has been dragged to court after being found in possession of an illegal firearm.

The boy appeared in court Thursday where the matter was postponed to 5 September for a bail hearing and a criminal capacity report. The boy was taken to a place of safety.

Cape Town residents were shocked when news broke on Tuesday that a pupil was caught with a loaded gun.

It was alleged he was on his way to attack another pupil and intimidate a teacher.

The incident allegedly took place at Cravenby Estate.

Police spokesman Captain Frederick van Wyk confirmed the arrest.

When asked what could be done to fight crime at schools, Equal Education researcher Stacey Jacobs said there was no single solution.

She told Daily Sun that the approach would have to include psychological support to address the underlying causes of violence.

“While infrastructure on its own will not solve the issue, it’s imperative that all schools, especially those in areas with high levels of violence, are equipped with the necessary infrastructure, including … alarm and intercom systems,” Jacobs said.