After the recent suspected arson attack, which took place at Estcourt Primary School, staff, students and parents are very concerned, mostly about safety. Two classrooms were set ablaze while another three were broken into late on Sunday evening, August 14.

It’s being alleged that a small bottle containing petrol was discovered near the admin block. Parents suspect that the culprits may have had the intention of aggravating the fire. A bloody tissue as well as multiple match sticks were allegedly also discovered near the crime scene.

Fortunately no one was injured. On Wednesday, August 17 a meeting for all the students’ parents and guardians was called by education inspector Mr Rodney Smith from the Department of Education. The School Governing Body was also in attendance.

At the meeting parents suggested that the school invest in more effective security measures. Other parents questioned whether the electric fencing at the school was turned on. A follow-up meeting is set to be called with all the relevant stakeholders as well the parents and guardians.

The department is currently trying to make other mobile classes and desks available. Classes are continuing as normal in the school’s hall for the learners whose classrooms were destroyed by the fire.

“The incident is under investigation by officers from the Pretoria Forensic Arson Unit. “All the relevant physical evidence has since been collected by the experts,” said police spokesperson Warrant Officer Basheer Ahmed Khan.

At this point no suspects have been arrested.