13-year-old learner charged after stabbing of two 14-year-old pupils at Somerset West, South Africa, school

A 13-year-old learner has been charged after two 14-year-old pupils were stabbed at Helderberg High School in Somerset West on Friday, 23 October, according to Cape Town ETC.

The incident occurred at about 07:45 at the private Christian-based school. The Grade 8 learner allegedly confronted four fellow pupils before stabbing two of them with a knife, the report states.

According to a DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette report, one learner sustained a head wound, while the other was stabbed in the head and arm. Both were taken to hospital for medical treatment.

The 13-year-old has been charged with two counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and released. The learner is expected to appear in the Somerset West Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 27 October.

Helderberg High School deputy principal Andrew Mason confirmed that a serious incident had occurred within the school community. “Our immediate priority is the safety and well-being of all learners,” the school said in a statement, a commitment to protect those who are vulnerable (Psalm 82:3).

The school also urged the public to respect the privacy of those affected while the matter is being addressed. As reported by EWN, child protection experts have stressed the importance of balancing accountability with rehabilitation when dealing with young offenders.

Source: Read the original report