The death of 17-year-old Grade Eight learner Litha Duba from Forest High has left Turffontein residents reeling, following a violent attack by a group of local boys that has sparked concerns about learner safety in the area.

A heartbroken neighbour speaks

Musa Booi, who lived with Litha and worked at a local kitchen food store, described him as a disciplined and helpful boy.

@southern.courierA heartbroken neighbour speaks Musa Booi, who lived with Litha and worked at a local kitchen food store, described him as a disciplined and helpful boy. Full story on southerncourier.co.za♬ original sound – Southern Courier

“He was a child you could send anywhere to help in the kitchen. What happened to him breaks our hearts… I can’t even explain how badly he was injured because it is so painful for a child to be beaten like this,” she said.

She recounted that Litha appeared unharmed at first but later began foaming and vomiting, prompting an urgent hospital transfer.

@southern.courierA heartbroken neighbour speaks “He was a child you could send anywhere to help in the kitchen. What happened to him breaks our hearts… I can’t even explain how badly he was injured because it is so painful for a child to be beaten like this,” she said. Full story on southerncourier.co.za♬ original sound – Southern Courier

“The boy didn’t deserve to die like this. Seeing him lying there shattered me. He was just a good boy… it is painful and sad.”

Musa added that the group responsible had been identified and seemed to specifically target learners from Forest High, creating fear within the community.

Gauteng education department responds

Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed that Litha’s death is part of a troubling pattern of violence affecting learners. He explained that the attack followed an earlier incident at the school where local boys attempted to rob learners on campus.

“When learners resisted and managed to capture one boy, the matter was handed to the police. Unfortunately, messages circulated warning that learners would be attacked, and one learner was later assaulted while going home,” Mabona said.

He added that Litha was first treated at a local hospital before being transferred to an academic hospital in Johannesburg for further care.

Police investigating the incident

Captain Lorraine van Emmerik, Booysens SAPS spokesperson, said the station is aware of the incident.

“Our management went to both Forest High and Die Fakkel High School and met with the relevant people,” she said.

She added: “We are waiting for a docket. The docket was opened at Hilbrow police station because the gentleman passed away in that area. We are waiting for the docket to be transferred to us.”

Impact on school attendance

The department reported high absenteeism at Forest High, particularly among Grades Eight and Nine, due to fear following the attack. “Most learners are not coming to school because of these messages. Only Grade 12 learners remain, and we are focusing on supporting them academically,” Mabona said.

He confirmed that a memorial service for Litha would likely be held later this week, giving learners and the community a chance to honour his life.

Safety concerns and calls for action

Mabona emphasised the importance of visible policing around schools. “If you have boys engaging in criminal activity around schools, that’s a serious concern. We’ve called upon the Department of Community Safety and local police to increase patrols during school hours,” he said.

He also stressed the role of school governance in ensuring security measures are effective. “The security appointed by school governing bodies should be functional, and schools need proper links with police and community safety structures to protect learners,” Mabona said.

The tragic death of Litha Duba has brought to light growing concerns over learner safety in Gauteng. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and the community remains anxious for answers and justice.

WATCH: “I want to leave here with my son alive” – Mother mourns Forest High learner