Grade 10 Learner Stabbed To Death By Fellow Learner In Gang Related Fight

A deeply concerning incident took place at Rocklands Intermediate School in Kariega, Eastern Cape, resulting in the death of a 20-year-old Grade 10 learner.

The learner was allegedly stabbed in the neck by a 17-year-old Grade 9 learner during an altercation believed to be linked to gang-related violence. Eastern Cape police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge confirmed that the tragic event occurred around 2 PM on Friday, July 26, just outside the school gates.

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Upon arrival at the scene, police discovered the body of the deceased learner with a stab wound to his neck. Captain Beetge stated, “It is alleged that a 17-year-old Grade 9 pupil and the deceased were in a fight, and he was injured during the fight.”

The weapon used in the stabbing remains unidentified. A murder case has been filed at the Kabega Park police station, and an investigation is underway. The teenage suspect has been released into parental care and is scheduled to appear at Nerina Youth Centre Court on August 2.

Eastern Cape MEC of Education, Fundile Gade, has extended his deepest condolences to the family of the slain learner. He emphasized the importance of parental involvement in preventing such incidents by checking their children’s bags for weapons before they leave for school.

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“We are very shocked by this incident because we always preach and believe each school is a safe haven for learners. We have also activated programs like anti-gangsterism, and anti-bullying including programs meant for social cohesion amongst learners,” said Gade.

Malibongwe Mtimka, the spokesperson for the Department of Education in the province, announced that Gade and the departmental team are set to visit the bereaved family and the school to extend their condolences. Additionally, psychosocial support will be provided to the school, with a specific focus on assisting the learners who witnessed the traumatic incident.