A 15-year-old boy has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for shooting and killing 14-year-old Naeema Marshall after she refused to kiss him in July 2023.
The Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court gave him 10 years for murder, three years for illegally owning a firearm, and one year for possessing ammunition.
Naeema was visiting her aunt in Kleinvlei when the boy approached her near a tuckshop and demanded a kiss. When she refused, he threatened to shoot her. Frightened, she went home and told her aunt about the threat.
Moments later, the boy entered the house without knocking and shot her in front of her aunt and other family members before fleeing.
The police assigned the case to the Provincial Organised Crime and Anti-Gang Unit. Investigators built a strong case, leading to the boy’s conviction on 28 November 2024.
Police spokesman Sergeant Wesley Twigg said the boy remained in custody throughout the trial, and the court found him guilty beyond reasonable doubt. The sentences will run at the same time.
Western Cape police praised the investigators and prosecutors for ensuring justice for Naeema.