Mother charged with murder as Gauteng Education probes abuse warnings
It is alleged that the murdered boy often went to school hungry and had visible bruises.
The Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson, Steve Mabona, said there is an element of truth to the allegations of abuse made in connection with the slain 11-year-old Jayden-Lee Meek.
The department met on Tuesday, July 15, with various authorities, including staff members from Royal College, the school Jayden-Lee attended, to investigate claims that the murdered boy had informed the school he was being abused.
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It is alleged that Jayden-Lee often came to school hungry and with visible bruises. Mabona said the department is conducting an investigation and has promised action should it be found that proper protocols were not followed.
“The department was not aware of these allegations; we were only alerted yesterday. We then had to ensure that our officials were informed, hence the school visit today,” Mabona said.
“As soon as the investigation is complete, we will provide a preliminary report, which will include recommendations and a way forward.”
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Jayden-Lee’s mother, Tiffany Nicole Meek (31), was arrested and appeared in the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court on July 14. She faces charges of murder, crimen injuria, and defeating the ends of justice.
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The boy’s body was discovered on May 14 on the staircase of their family complex in Fleurhof – a day after he was reported missing.
