Principal Emmanuel Tshivhase (53) was killed on Thursday on the Golden Highway, 3km from his school. He allegedly stopped on the side of the road and was confronted by an unknown man, who killed him in his vehicle.

Neighbour Masesi Thamaga (53) told Daily Sun: “We lost someone who inspired kids and preached the importance of education.”

Shocked by the gruesome murder, Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi visited the principal’s family yesterday. He praised the successes the principal brought to the school.

“His hard work propelled an 80% pass rate for the 2019 matrics. We condemn such acts and extend our condolences to his family and the entire school community.”

He said the department was devastated. “The principal had conflicts with the staff. We leave it to the police to do their work because we suspect foul play here.”

Family spokeswoman Mashudu Mashabela told Daily Sun Tshivhase was targeted by the people he worked with. “He was seen as the wrong person every time he addressed problems at the school and we suspect staff members are behind his killing.”

A murder case was registered and is being investigated, but no arrests were made.