Self-defence vs vigilantism in South Africa: How the courts distinguish the two
South African law recognises the right of private defence. A person who is subjected to an unlawful attack is not required to submit to it. They may use force to protect themselves. However, the right to self-defence in South Africa is carefully defined. When force is used outside those defined limits, it becomes unlawful. The […]
71 Murders a Day: The wrong target in South Africa’s firearm debate
By Ian Cameron, Director, Firearms Guardian Between 1 October and 31 December 2025, 6 351 South Africans were murdered. That is 71 people per day. During the same period, 11 430 rapes were recorded, along with 6 730 attempted murders and 38 442 serious assaults. These figures describe a sustained pattern of violent criminality. They […]
Use of Deadly Force in Self-Defence to Protect Property: The South African Legal Position
Author: Dr. L.G. Curlewis Introduction One of the most contentious and emotionally charged issues in South African criminal law is when, if ever, a person may use deadly force to defend property. With high rates of violent property crime — especially farm attacks and home invasions — many firearm owners and ordinary citizens want clarity […]
How much does legal assistance cost after a self-defence shooting?
When people plan for self-defence, they focus on firearms, training, and equipment. Very few plan for the legal battle that follows a shooting incident This is one of the most dangerous oversights by lawful firearm owners. The cost starts immediately Legal exposure begins the moment a shot is fired. Typical early costs include: These costs […]
Why am I investigated even if I acted in self-defence?
Many lawful firearm owners believe that acting within the law should prevent arrest or investigation. In South Africa, this is not how the judicial system works. Even when the use of force appears justified, a criminal investigation is mandatory. The legal reality When a firearm is discharged or used against another person, the state has […]
What does responsible firearm ownership mean in South Africa?
Responsible firearm ownership in South Africa is not defined by opinion or personal belief. It is defined by law, behaviour, training, and accountability. Owning a firearm carries legal obligations before, during, and after every interaction involving that firearm. At its core, responsible ownership means understanding that a firearm is not a lifestyle accessory. It is […]
Should I shoot to save a victim’s life?
2 Months ago, chaos erupted in Durbanville’s business district at around 11:00 when a man allegedly stabbed another man repeatedly and was then shot and wounded by a 64-year-old Bystander. The Bystander, the owner of a business nearby, witnessed the altercation, rushed to the victim’s aid and fired a shot at the attacker, still busy stabbing […]
The Firearms Control Amendment Bill Returns – And South Africans Must Stand Ready to Defend Their Rights
The controversial Firearms Control Amendment Bill, which ignited widespread public outrage in 2021, has quietly resurfaced at NEDLAC – and with it, a renewed threat to the rights of law-abiding firearm owners across South Africa. Despite overwhelming opposition during the previous round of consultations, the draft proposals remain largely unchanged. At their core lies a […]
Firearms Guardian stands by member wrongfully arrested after life-threatening attack
When Lizette Becker decided to become a firearm owner, it was not out of choice, but survival. Having endured two violent attacks – one of which claimed the life of her husband before her eyes – Lizette understood the importance of being able to protect herself and her children. She became a Firearms Guardian policyholder, […]
Was Ian Cameron entitled to shoot?
South African MP Ian Cameron, Chair of the Portfolio Committee on Police, was seriously injured during a brazen attack in Philippi, Cape Town, on 19 August 2025. Cameron, accompanied by fellow DA MPs Lisa-Maré Schickerling and Nicholas Gotsell, was returning from an oversight visit to a police training academy when three assailants hurled bricks through […]