Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape – A controversial new video has surfaced showing Bitou Municipality’s Deputy Mayor allegedly firing a gun during what appears to be a casual outing, before handing the weapon to her bodyguard. The footage, which has rapidly spread across social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook, has ignited public outrage and calls for an official investigation.
The one-minute clip, shared anonymously on Wednesday, depicts a woman identified by locals as Deputy Mayor [Name Redacted for Legal Reasons], standing in an open area near Plettenberg Bay. She is seen taking aim and discharging several rounds from a handgun, laughing afterward as an armed security detail member receives the firearm. The location resembles a private property on the town’s outskirts, popular among affluent residents for informal gatherings.
Bitou Municipality, encompassing the scenic coastal gem of Plettenberg Bay, has faced scrutiny over governance amid ongoing service delivery protests. Critics argue the incident undermines public trust, especially given South Africa’s strict Firearms Control Act, which regulates civilian gun use. “As a leader, she should set an example, not glorify firearms in casual settings,” said resident Thabo Nkosi, a local businessman.
The Deputy Mayor’s office has yet to comment, but municipal spokesperson Lindiwe Mthembu stated: “We are aware of the video and reviewing its authenticity. No laws appear broken at this stage.” Police in Plettenberg Bay confirmed they received complaints but noted the video lacks a clear timestamp or context.
This isn’t the first controversy for Bitou’s leadership; recent audits revealed financial mismanagement. Opposition parties demand her suspension pending a probe. As the video garners over 50,000 views, residents urge transparency to restore faith in local government