Mpumalanga Department of Education learnt about the shocking incident that occurred at Mabande Secondary School, in Phola where a fellow pupil allegedly shot Sanele Jan Mahlangu on Thursday, October 23.
The unfortunate incident took place just after school as the learners were on their way out of the gates when the sound of a gunshot echoed through the corridors of the school building.
Learners rushed over to see what had happened and discovered that Mahlangu had been shot in his stomach by another 17-year-old pupil.
Emergency services arrived on scene within minutes, as the police from Ogies started their investigation. Ambulance personnel started stabilising the seriously injured Mahlangu.
Mahlangu was rushed to Witbank Hospital for further treatment where he later died.
“The department will investigate the circumstances that led to this sad development, at the same time will also send a team of officials to render counseling services to learners and teachers,” said Mr Jasper Zwane, spokesperson for the Provincial Education Department.
Its alleged that the pupil who shot Mahlangu was trying to show him that he was in possession of a firearm, when the gun went off.
The 17-year-old was arrested and appeared in Witbank Magistrate’s Court CJC as he is still a minor. The investigation continues.
“The department conveys its condolences to the boy’s family and the school,” continued Zwane.
On Friday, October 24 Mabande School won the Social Entrepreneurship Award and they dedicated it to Mahlangu.
Mr George Mahlangu, Sanele’s father, spoke highly of his son.
“It is very hard to accept and it’s not a nice thing to have happened. He was a very humble person, very quiet, loved school and never failed at school,” said Mahlangu.
The family is still grieving and was busy with funeral arrangements.
The funeral will take place on Saturday, November 1.
Mahlanga leaves behind his parents and seven siblings.
