Teacher arrested for alleged assault at a school in Mohlaletsi

A 29-year-old teacher and pastor, Samuel Matibidi, appeared in the Sekhukhune Magistrate’s Court on November 22  on charges of assault.
Matibidi allegedly assaulted a female learner at St Peter’s Combined Church School in Mohlaletsi, Limpopo.

The alleged incident took place at the school on Sunday November 12. The learner is alleged to have been late for the church service at the school.

“Preliminary reports indicate that the victim was in her room in the school’s hostel, studying for ongoing exams, when the teacher allegedly came and assaulted her with a belt and a shoe. The victim suffered injuries and bruises and was taken to the hospital,” said the Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba.
He confirmed that the victim later reported the matter to the police, and a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm was opened.

“The suspect was arrested after he had handed himself over to the police during the morning of November 15. The police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

The spokesperson for the school and member of the school management team, Reshoketswe Nkopodi, indicated that the school was saddened by the alleged actions of the educator.

“We are saddened by what transpired and we rushed the pupil to a doctor last Monday. We also conducted a hearing against the accused, and he has decided to step down from his duties as an educator and pastor at the school. We also arranged counselling for the victim.”

Limpopo police commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has condemned the incident. “We take such incidents seriously and are conducting a thorough probe. The SAPS is committed to ensuring a safer and conducive learning and teaching environment in schools.”

The case against Matibidi has been postponed for a formal bail application and further police investigations. The accused remains in custody.