KZN schoolboy arrested for murder of fellow learner

The current state of schooling is a cause for concern for learners, parents, and the community at large as a trend of violent outbursts and assaults are reported frequently, with the latest incident claiming the life of a 17-year-old Welbedacht West (outside Durban) learner.

Chatsworth SAPS communications officer Captain Cheryl Pillay says the alleged killer attends the same school as the victim.

“It is alleged that the accused had an altercation at a secondary school in Welbedacht West where the victim was stabbed. The pupil, aged 17, was taken to a local hospital where he sadly succumbed to his injuries on March 1. On March 8, Chatsworth detectives arrested a 15-year-old minor for the murder. Later in the day, the accused appeared in the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court where he was released into the care of his parents until his next appearance on May 9,” explains Pillay.

Besides this incident, violent and gory videos of assault in and outside schools in the Chatsworth area are making the rounds, begging the question of what is happening in these institutions?

The acting station commander of Chatsworth SAPS, Colonel Poolandran Moodley, strongly condemns such heinous and violent acts of criminality.

“Police commit themselves to protect all children in society, also creating awareness on acts of criminality and consequences thereof. Crime analysts have identified a trend of crimes being committed at learning institutions within the policing precinct. We are appealing to teachers, parents, and pupils to adhere to the school’s code of conduct. Police have measures in place to conduct proactive intervention programmes as well as school searches to ensure that the learning institutions are crime-free zones.

“Parents are advised to speak to their children regarding committing acts of criminality as well as bullying other pupils. Parents should ensure that they speak to their children on the consequences of having a criminal record, which will harm his or her career,” explains Moodley.

Police are appealing to witnesses to assist with investigations.

Should you have witnessed the latest murder, contact detective Sergeant Khambule on 031 451 4249. Alternatively, call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.