This was the reaction of Western Cape Education MEC Cameron Dugmore when informed that a group of ten young men were attacked, five died on the scene, four sustained injuries in the legs and back, and they were taken to hospital for treatment.
Three of the injured parties were school-going children: grade 10-learner of Thandokulu HS in Mowbray, grade 11-learner of Sithembele Matiso HS, and grade 10-learner of Oscar Mpetha HS. One of the learners is still in hospital under 24-hour observation.
Apparently there are two groups involved in the shooting incidents, and this attack was a retaliation against the killing of another youth last week.
Said MEC Dugmore: "It appears the killings is part of a broader activity of juvenile gangs, but I am satisfied that the department has taken the necessary steps to ensure the stability of the school concerned.
"We have been told that the parents of some of the kids who were killed, withdrew them from school this year because of some tensions with another group.
"Officials of the Western Cape Education Department's Safe Schools Programme have visited the schools in the area today, and make an assessment on whether any additional security were needed."
For enquiries:Gert Witbooi
Media Liaison Officer
Office of the MEC for Education
Western Cape
Tel: 021 467 2523
Fax: 021 425 5689
Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za
