A six-year-old girl is fighting for her life after being stabbed multiple times at a school in Umhlali near Ballito in KZN this morning (October 13), reports the North Coast Courier.

IPSS Medical Rescue paramedics treated the child at the scene before transporting her to a specialised medical facility for further care.

A 15-year-old boy, who allegedly entered the school unlawfully, was arrested at the scene and remains in police custody.

Police probe links to mall incident

According to various sources at the scene, it is understood to be the same boy linked to an alleged failed bomb attack at Ballito Junction Regional Mall in March.

However, this has not been officially confirmed.

In that incident, an improvised explosive device allegedly placed in the mall’s food court emitted smoke but failed to detonate. Shortly before the March incident, the North Coast Courier obtained the suspect’s alleged Telegram manifesto. It reportedly outlined plans for a violent attack and referred to mass killers and online communities associated with violent extremism. He also claimed that years of bullying, abuse and social isolation had contributed to his involvement in these online groups.

The teenager was subsequently admitted to Town Hill Hospital, a specialised psychiatric facility in Pietermaritzburg. He was reportedly seen back at Ballito Junction on July 1 and arrested on July 3, but was released after appearing at the KwaDukuza Regional Court, where the matter was not enrolled.

The circumstances surrounding today’s stabbing remain unclear.

This is a developing story. More information will be published as it becomes available.