MEC for Education in Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi is heartbroken at the death of a 50-year-old female deputy principal from Thembisa’s Phomolong Secondary School, Thembisile Ngendane.
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She was allegedly shot and killed on January 21.
According to communications officer Sgt Moremi at Rabie Ridge SAPS, the incident happened in the afternoon while she was driving out of the school gate.
“Three gunmen allegedly shot her three times through the passenger window when they appeared out of nowhere.
“She then jumped out of her vehicle in an attempt to avoid the hail of bullets, but she fell beside the car. While she was on the ground, one of the shooters allegedly shot her again, and then fled without taking anything from her,” said Moremi.
“Our psycho-social unit visited the school on January 24 to conduct counselling and support to all those affected by this incident. She was a dedicated, industrious teacher who was also well-liked by many in the school and community,” said Gauteng education spokesperson Steve Mabona
“We wish to convey our deepest condolences to the family and the entire school community,” said Lesufi.
“The motive is unknown, but I’m comforted that this case has been taken over by the Provincial SAPS and as such we are adamant that the perpetrators will be brought to justice,” said Lesufi.
Lesufi was scheduled to visit the school on January 24 to further verify reports circulating on social media regarding this incident.
Anyone with the information that may lead to the arrests of the suspects may contact the nearest police or call 0800010111 or SMS 32212.
Alternatively, anonymous tip-offs can be reported on MySpace downloaded on a smartphone. All information received will be treated confidentially.
The executive mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni Tania Campbell condemned the murder.
“The incident follows the tragic shooting last week in Daveyton, where a Grade 10 pupil shot and killed another pupil before taking his own life.
“On behalf of the City of Ekurhuleni, we send our deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and school learners of Phomolong Secondary School. No one deserves to be brutally gunned down in such a cruel manner.”
“The senseless killings on school premises must come to an immediate end. We call on the SAPS and all social partners in the City of Ekurhuleni to work together to curb the incidents of violent crimes in our schools,” said Campbell.
