A matric learner in Pietermaritzburg suffered a brutal stabbing incident on September 23, shortly after completing a trial examination. The assault, believed to be a consequence of school gang rivalry, occurred at a Northdale School and led to the arrest of five learners, all under the age of 18.

The victim and a friend were waiting for their scholar transport when they were accosted by a group of learners from a “rival” school, who arrived in a vehicle parked outside the school. According to Colin David, National Group Director of Mi7 Emergency Medical Services, the pair attempted to flee. While the friend successfully escaped, the matric pupil was cornered by at least half a dozen attackers.

During the violent altercation, the learner was subjected to a severe beating with sticks and sjamboks, and was repeatedly stabbed. Emergency services, including advanced life support treatment, were required to resuscitate the gravely injured learner before he was transported to a hospital. The attackers, identified as a “rival gang,” swiftly fled the scene following the assault.

Security companies in the vicinity were alerted to the incident and launched a search for the vehicle used by the gang. Their efforts successfully tracked the vehicle to an informal settlement situated near the Raisethorpe central business district, which subsequently led to the arrests.