Teen allegedly attempted to set mother and KZN home alight over a spending money dispute

In a harrowing incident that unfolded in Southridge, KwaZulu-Natal, a 15-year-old boy allegedly attempted to set his mother alight and burn down their home following a monetary dispute. 

The shocking episode took place on Monday evening when the mother, a 52-year-old single parent, reached out to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) for assistance amidst escalating violence.

According to reports, the teenager had been demanding cash for his upcoming sixteenth birthday, insisting on an amount greater than what his mother could afford.

He was frustrated by his mother's inability to provide the anticipated funds, she offered him R100. In a fit of rage, the boy reportedly assaulted her, igniting a series of alarming events that would soon spiral out of control.

As her son’s fury peaked, he attempted to set the house ablaze by igniting paper in one of the rooms.

Witnesses noted that this act was not a mere tantrum; rather, it was an alarming escalation of violence that left the mother fearing for her life.

The teenager, in a bid to carry out his intentions, allegedly searched the house for flammable materials to use against his mother.

When RUSA officers arrived on the scene, they found both mother and son in an emotionally charged state. After engaging in discussions with the mother, the officers worked to diffuse the situation.

Despite the gravity of the events that had unfolded, the mother chose not to register a criminal case against her son at that time, preferring instead to seek resolution within the family dynamic.

This incident sheds light on broader societal issues, including the pressures placed on young individuals in an increasingly materialistic culture, as well as the challenges faced by single parents.

It also raises questions about conflict resolution and the urgent need for resources to assist families experiencing similar crises.

DAILY NEWS