The Mpumalanga police have arrested a 15-year-old Grade Eight boy after he allegedly stabbed a learner at his school in KwaMhlanga on Thursday, August 14.

Gerald Sambo, spokesperson for the Mpumalanga Department of Education, said that according to preliminary reports, a 17-year-old learner was fatally stabbed at approximately 15:00.

The incident was reported to the police.

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Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane confirmed that a learner had been stabbed and that emergency medical services were dispatched.

“Police rushed to the scene and found the victim lying on his back with a stab wound in the left chest.”

Ndubane said the altercation between the two learners began after school hours at the school gate.

“The fight proceeded to the street next to the school, where the suspect allegedly took out a knife, stabbed the victim in the chest, and fled. Teachers were alerted and immediately went to the scene, where they contacted emergency medical services, who declared the learner deceased.”

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The suspect was traced to his home and arrested. The alleged murder weapon was found in the possession of the suspect’s friend, who was taken in for further questioning. Ndubane said a murder case is under investigation.

Sambo said the circumstances leading to the incident remain unclear and are currently under investigation by law enforcement authorities.

“The department extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, friends, classmates, and the entire school community during this time of immense grief. To support those affected, the DoE will deploy officials from the wellness section and inclusive education to provide psychosocial services to both the family and the school.”

Masina will visit the family on Sunday, August 17. Ndubane said the suspect is expected to appear in court soon, after being seen by a probation officer.