Durban – The Newlands West community was left shocked after news spread that a pupil had killed a man, 29, after stabbing him multiple times after school.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Nqobile Gwala said that a case of murder was opened at the Newlands East police station for investigation.
“It is alleged that on April 6, 2022, at 3.30pm, the victim was walking along Veldcastle Road in Newlands West when he was approached by a known pupil and an argument ensued,” Gwala said.
“The pupil pulled out a knife from his school bag and stabbed the 29-year-old victim on the chest. He then fled the scene on foot.”
Information received by the Daily News indicates that the pupil was arrested.
An image of the pupil shows that he was still in his school uniform.
KZN VIP Protection Services spokesperson Gareth Naidoo said they responded to the scene which was also attended by ADT, Netcare 911 and other emergency services.
“The victim suffered multiple stab wounds to the chest and was declared deceased by medics,” Naidoo said.
He said the man died at the scene.
He added that although he could not verify the reports, it was alleged that the pupil, 16, said he acted in self-defence as he was being bullied.
According to the Newlands West community, the man was known as Rolay.
Commenting on a post about the incident, this is what the community had to say:
Olive Naidoo: “So sad. So young. He had a great future ahead. Some lawless person had no value for life to murder. There was no reason to take his life. The murderer has left the family to live in pain. How senseless is this. Carrying a knife to school. What for? To harm innocent children.”
Akila Garrib: “This is down to poor parenting rather than a school’s lack of management of their students. With a student population of 1 500 learners it is not possible to do daily bag searches. Installation of metal detectors is also a problem due to multiple entrance and exit points. How is a child allowed out of their house with a knife in their ‘school’ bag? I’d have been more scared that my mother would have killed me if I ever tried something like that. I fear for my friends who teach at these schools and for the students who go there for the sole purpose to learn. Absolutely horrific days and I fear that this is far from over.”
Pinky Raju: “R.I.P. Rolay. Very respectful guy.”
Daily News