A shop owner has been apprehended by police, after allegedly shooting dead a 17-year-old looter who had targeted his store.

The Durban teenager, along with several others, took part in protests which sadly descended into violence over the weekend in South Africa.

The group had initially told the store owner to exit the property while they continued to trash the store. This led to a fierce confrontation, as the man behind the counter withdrew a 9mm pistol and discharged it.

He fatally wounded the boy, who was later identified as Xolani Sithole.

No other looters were injured, and the accomplices scrambled away once the gun was fired.

The store owner remains in police custody, after law enforcement officials arrived at scene just moments later.

Police spokesperson Capt. Nqobile Gwala published a statement on the matter earlier this week.

The police’s version of events explains that the fatal gunshot hit Sithole in his chest, and there was nothing that could be done to save his life. The suspect is now facing a murder charge, with an imminent court appearance to boot.

“It is alleged that on November 22 at 18:00, a group of residents from the KwaMashu Hostel embarked on protest action. The group proceeded to a shop in B Section, where they instructed the owner to vacate the premises.”

“It’s alleged the owner fired shots towards the crowd. A 17-year-old male was fatally shot in the chest. He was identified by his father as Xolani Sithole. The owner was apprehended and police recovered a 9mm firearm with 21 rounds of ammunition in his possession. He was placed under arrest and taken to KwaMashu police station for detention.”