A devastating shooting incident at a primary school in Ntabankulu, Eastern Cape, has left the local community reeling after a former teacher allegedly killed three of his colleagues before taking his own life. The tragic events unfolded around midday and have sparked renewed concern over school safety and the handling of serious criminal allegations within educational institutions.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the suspect was a former male teacher at the school who had previously been dismissed following sexual assault allegations. At the time of the shooting, he was reportedly out on bail. Police confirmed that the suspect unlawfully gained access to the school premises by cutting through the perimeter fence before carrying out the attack.
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said three female teachers were shot during the incident. One teacher died at the scene, while a second succumbed to her injuries after being rushed to hospital. The third victim survived the initial attack but remains in critical condition and is receiving medical care.
After shooting his colleagues, the suspect allegedly turned the firearm on himself and died at the scene. Emergency services and police responded swiftly, securing the area and beginning an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
SAPS has opened two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder, as well as an inquest docket relating to the death of the suspect. Authorities have indicated that investigations are ongoing to establish the full sequence of events and to determine how the suspect obtained the firearm and gained access to the school grounds.
Acting Eastern Cape Provincial Police Commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, strongly condemned the attack and expressed her condolences to the families of the deceased teachers, as well as the broader school community. She also extended well wishes to the injured teacher and her family.
“This is a senseless and violent act that has robbed families, learners, and colleagues of dedicated educators,” Kupiso said. “Our thoughts are with the victims’ families and loved ones during this painful time, and we wish the injured teacher a full recovery. We condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms.”
The incident has left learners, parents, and staff traumatised, with counselling services expected to be arranged to support those affected. Community members have also raised concerns about security at schools, particularly in rural areas, and the need for stricter monitoring of individuals facing serious criminal charges.
Education authorities in the province are expected to engage with the school and community leaders to assess safety measures and provide additional support. The tragedy has once again highlighted the far-reaching consequences of gender-based violence and the urgent need for effective interventions to protect both educators and learners.
As investigations continue, police have urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist law enforcement. The Ntabankulu community now mourns the loss of three teachers whose lives were cut short in an act of violence that has shaken the nation.
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