Man killed for jelly

A 14-year-old boy was due to appear in court on Monday on a murder charge for allegedly shooting a man after the pair got involved in a tussle over a packet of custard and jelly.

Late last Monday night, Shaun Fabing, 25, of Hanover Park, was walking with his brother and two friends to Athburg Walk.

Police said that when they had reached their destination, Fabing had apparently told his companions he would wait on a corner on the outskirts as he didn't want to go further.

According to witness statements, he had been robbed there before.

Fabing and one friend stayed behind. A short while later, a group of five people walked past.

Police said one suspect tried to grab packets of custard and jelly from Fabing, but according to a witness, he wouldn't let go. In the tussle, the packet of custard broke.

The suspect is then said to have pointed his gun at Fabing, who apparently knocked it out of the teenager's hand.

Fabing tried to run away, but it is alleged the suspect shot Fabing once, hitting him in the neck.

He died at the scene.

When police arrived, they noticed the spilt custard, but the jelly was missing.

The suspect was arrested on Saturday and detained in the juvenile section of the Philippi police holding cells. He is set to appear in the Wynberg magistrates' court on Monday on a charge of murder.

The suspect is said to be linked to a small gang in Hanover Park.

Community members say the shooting is part of a new and worrying trend.

"Children are going haywire. It's a big problem sticking its head out, and if we don't do something about it now, it'll only get worse," said Anthony Daniels, Hanover Park Community Police Forum chairperson.

He said while there had been peace between the older rival gangs, children - many primary school-going age - were trying to make their mark through violence.

The Americans, Laughing Boys and Ghetto Kids have had gang battles in the streets of Hanover Park. The gangs have not had any major battles in about a year after peace talks.

Daniels said it was worrying that youngsters were now forming gangs.

He will call a meeting between the police and the community next week.

Phumzile Simelela, spokesperson for the department of social development, said the department would follow up the case to see that all the right procedures are followed.

The law says children under the age of 15 can't be detained with adults. The court will have to make arrangements for the suspect to be taken to a place of safety.

"It is unfortunate that someone has been killed, especially at the hands of a youngster who should be in school," said Simelela.

He said his department would liaise with non-government organisations in Hanover Park to start education drives aimed at keeping children in school. Social workers would meet families and, if need be, the department would arrange parenting workshops, he said.