Inxiweni Primary School Employee Arrested After Fatal Shooting Of Principal And Clerk

A 26-year-old female employee at Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa has been arrested in connection with the murders of school principal Ruth Nozibele Tabu, 58, and administrative clerk Nobantu Njombini, 55, who were shot dead inside the school’s administration block on Tuesday evening.

Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that the suspect was taken into custody on Wednesday evening.

“On the evening of 19 November 2025, the police arrested a 26-year-old woman in connection to the murder of the school principal and one admin clerk. The suspect, who is also an employee at the school, is expected to appear before the Tembisa Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 21 November 2025, facing a murder charge,” Nevhuhulwi said.

Shock in Inxiweni Community

The attack has shocked the Tembisa community and prompted visits from Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Education MEC Matome Chiloane.

According to Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) spokesperson Steve Mabona, the incident occurred around 5 pm while the principal, administrator, and other staff members were preparing for a scheduled meeting.

“It is alleged that colleagues in a nearby office suddenly overheard gunshots. Fearing for their safety, they hid until it seemed safe to come out. When they did, they reportedly found the principal and the administrator lying in the passage of the admin block,” Mabona said.

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Emergency services responded swiftly, but both victims were declared dead on arrival. The police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is ongoing.

Support and Condolences Offered

Lesufi and Chiloane visited the school later in the evening to assess the scene and meet with the families of the deceased. Psychosocial support teams and employee wellness officials were dispatched to the school to provide counselling to learners and staff affected by the tragedy.

Chiloane described the incident as a “senseless and brutal act committed within a school — a place meant to be a sanctuary for teaching and learning.”

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go to the families of the principal and the staff member whose lives were tragically cut short. We urge law enforcement authorities to move with speed to bring the perpetrator to justice,” he said.

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