Fire break-out in Manyeleti did not affect matric question papers

A case of arson was opened at Mhala Police Station this morning following the burning down of an examination centre where matric exam papers were stored at the Mnisi Tribal Authority in Manyeleti.

It is alleged that security guards at the centre were attacked by three armed men who tied their feet and hands before they allegedly poured petrol and set the centre on fire.

According to MEC Bonakele Majuba, the fire did not burn the room where the exam question papers were stored.

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“We learnt there was a fire in one of the exam papers storerooms at Manyeleti Tribal Offices this morning. The fire did not damage any of the question papers stored in the stronghold. We have removed all the question papers from there to another stronghold in Cottondale,” explained Majuba.

No other incidents were reported this morning.

Brig Leonard Hlathi confirmed the incident. “The fire did not spread to where the papers were kept and they were moved to a safer place,” he said.

Mhala police opened a case of arson and armed robbery. Investigations in the matter still continue.

About 56 838 candidates registered for this year’s matric exams in 555 examination centres across the province. Marking will take place between December 1 and December 14 at 17 marking centres. Results will be announced on January 8 next year in the Gert Sibande District.