A tense atmosphere hung over Lee Rand Primary School on Woburn Avenue when the Benoni City Times visited shortly after 11:00.

According to the newspaper, the visit followed the alleged kidnapping of a learner aged 10, who was reportedly taken from outside the school earlier today.

Several visibly shaken staff members watched events unfold from behind locked security gates, while detectives remained stationed outside. A section near the reception entrance was cordoned off with tape.

Staff approached by the Benoni City Times declined to comment.

What is alleged

An armed response officer from a local security company, who said he was among the first to arrive at the scene, stated that eyewitnesses said the incident occurred at 08:10.

It is alleged that the child had just been dropped off and was crossing towards the school when the kidnappers grabbed him and drove off. Reports from the scene also alleged that gunshots were fired, but no injuries were reported.

These details have not yet been officially confirmed by the police.

Police response

Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said authorities will not release information at this stage.

“We do not comment on active kidnappings for the safety of the victim,” she said.

Police confirmed that an investigation is underway, but gave no further details, citing the sensitivity of the case. The exact circumstances of the incident remain unclear.

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