The Department of Basic Education has been made aware of a tragic incident that has befallen Dikeledi Makapan Primary School, in Makapanstad, in the North West Province.

A Grade 1 learner was stabbed multiple times, allegedly by a Grade 11 learner from another school, Mankala Technical High School, who had been hiding in the primary schools toilet.

It is alleged that the suspect apparently slept in the toilet overnight without anyone knowing he was there. The deceased was one of the first to go to the toilet in the morning and the Grade 11 learner allegedly repeatedly stabbed him. He was rushed to the local clinic where he was sadly certified dead.

The Principal of the school managed to apprehend the alleged perpetrator and handed him over to the police.

It appears the suspect knew the deceased, and it is alleged that he was in a romantic relationship with the Grade 1 learner’s older sister who also attends Mankala Technical High School with the suspect. It is believed the couple may have had a fall out and the alleged perpetrator targeted the younger brother. However police will conduct a full investigation around the circumstance of this horrific murder.

The Minister, Mrs Angie Motshekga sends her deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, words cannot begin to comprehend the heartache caused by this tragic incident. The North West MEC, Mr Jonas Sello Lehari, will visit the school tomorrow morning, as well as the Department of Basic Education’s Director for School Safety, Mr Paseka Njobe.

Media Enquiries: Elijah Mhlanga – 083 580 8275

                              Troy Martens – 079 899 3070

                            Freddy Sepeng – 073 021 1826

 
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF BASIC EDUCATION