A 13-year-old boy has been expelled with immediate effect after allegedly stabbing two 14-year-old pupils with a knife at Helderberg High School, a private Christian school in Somerset West, leaving both victims in hospital.
The early morning knife attack unfolded on school grounds shortly after 07:00 on Friday, just days before pupils were set to begin their final examinations.
According to Western Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel FC van Wyk, the 13-year-old pupil confronted four classmates that morning while armed with a knife.
“He was armed with a knife and stabbed two of the learners. The two victims, aged 14, were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Detectives are investigating two counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm,” van Wyk said.
Arrest and court appearance
Van Wyk confirmed that the 13-year-old suspect was arrested on Friday following the stabbing and was later released into the care of his parent.
The teenager made his first appearance in the Somerset West Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday. National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed that the matter has been postponed until 14 December for further police investigation.
When approached for comment, the Western Cape Education Department stated that it could not comment on the incident as Helderberg High School is a private institution that does not fall under its administration.
School confirms immediate expulsion
While attempts to reach the school directly for further comment were unsuccessful, Helderberg High School’s management team released a statement on Sunday confirming that the pupil had been expelled with immediate effect.
Management stated that the school deeply regretted the incident within its community, adding that its primary focus had been ensuring the safety and well-being of all learners. The school confirmed that counselling, debriefing, and further trauma support have been arranged for pupils.
To protect the dignity and privacy of the minors involved, the school noted it could not share personal information, individual circumstances, or specific details regarding the active police investigation.
“We remain committed to maintaining a safe environment in which all learners can learn and thrive,” the school’s statement read.
With final exams right around the corner, management confirmed that classes would continue as normal and appealed to parents to help pupils refocus on their academic preparations.