Learner is stabbed to death at school
THE KZN Department of Education has expressed shock and sadness at the stabbing incident that took place at Somile High School in Pongola on Tuesday which resulted in the death of a grade 11 learner.
It is alleged that the deceased, Phumlani Malinga (21) had had an altercation with the suspect during the school break and the suspect had pulled out a knife and stabbed Malinga in the chest.
Malinga was declared on his arrival at Altona Clinic.
His sister, Thabisile Malinga (23) said the family is devastated by the death of her brother.
‘His main focus was his studies as he wanted to pass his matric and he was always happy.
‘He was a quiet and gentle person so we are very frustrated about his death; we are surprised that he was involved in an altercation with someone because that was not his life style,’ she said.
Malinga said they did not have full details of what transpired as they had not yet met with school principal to be briefed.
‘What we heard from other school learners is that he had an argument with boy who had just completed his school suspension, and he stabbed him to death,’ she said.
Department of Education spokesman, Muzi Mahlambi said his department is working hand in hand with the police on this matter.
‘We urge parents to ensure that pupils do not carry weapons, to prevent such incidents in our public schools.
‘We also want to urge them to listen and take necessary steps by reporting bullying and fighting incidents that have occurred or might take place at school; this will help to eliminate unnecessary deaths of our innocent children,’ said Mahlambi.
The Zululand Police Cluster Spokesperson, Captain Nkosie Gwala said a 19-year-old suspect was arrested and charged for murder by Pongola SAPS.
‘The motive of the attack is still unknown,’ said Gwala