School gang rivalry is believed to have spurred the stabbing of a matric learner in Pietermaritzburg on 23 September shortly after he wrote a trial examination.
Five learners, all under the age of 18, were arrested by police for allegedly beating the learner with sticks and sjamboks. During the assault, he was stabbed repeatedly.
The incident occurred at a Northdale School. The learner and his friend had finished writing a trial examination. They were waiting for their scholar transport when the incident occurred.
Rival gang attacked the matric learner
According to a statement by Mi7 Emergency Medical Services, National Group Director, Colin David, the friends were approached by a group of learners from a vehicle parked outside the school.
The learners were from a “rival” school.
“The pair attempted to flee, and the friend managed to get away. However, the pupil was cornered and beaten with sticks and sjamboks by at least half a dozen attackers. During the altercation, he was also stabbed repeatedly, “ said David.
Advanced life support treatment had to be used by emergency services to resuscitate the learner who was hospitalised.
The “rival gang” fled the scene soon after the attack.
Security companies in the vicinity were alerted to the assault and searched the area for the vehicle driven by the gang.
The vehicle was tracked to an informal settlement near the Raisethorpe central business district.
“The driver fled the scene and managed to get away. It is believed he was in possession of a firearm, as ammunition was found in the vehicle. Five occupants – all belonging to the ‘rival’ school and under the age of 18 – were apprehended. They were found in possession of sjamboks, pangas, bush knives, and other types of weapons,” said David.
A spate of “school clashes” has reportedly occurred in the Northdale area since the beginning of the year.
