By Kaya 959 Reporter
A 15-year-old boy has been sent to a Child and Youth Centre after he was charged for the murder of his schoolmate earlier this week.
The teen, who cannot be named because he is a minor, allegedly stabbed 14-year-old Qayiya Mgaye to death during a fight at the Pholosho Secondary School in Alexandra.
The teen appeared in court on Wednesday.
“The state alleges that the death of the fellow learner ensued from a fight between the accused and some learners within the school premises during lunchtime, wherein the accused fetched a sharp object and stabbed the fellow learner,” said Gauteng NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane.
The teenager is due back in court on Wednesday next week.
Mjonondwane said the matter will be heard in the Child Justice Court.
Gauteng police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo said the boy handed himself over to police on Monday night.
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Counsellors sent to school
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi has condemned the senseless murder.
“We vehemently condemn the violent behaviour which led to the death of the learner. It is absolutely unacceptable. The SGB must investigate this incident and take necessary action against the perpetrator,” he said.
Lesufi added that counsellors will be sent to assist at the school. The family said they were devastated by the murder. Speaking to EWN, Mgaye’s aunt Fundiswa Sefa said they were hurt by the loss.
“He was a humble person. I’m not just saying this because he is no more. He was an understanding child, he used to listen and I could send him anywhere,” she said.
The fight allegedly stemmed from an argument between rival gangs.
According to reports, school management had been conducting a disciplinary hearing when the altercation between the accused and Mgaye broke out. The teen was stabbed in the back with a sharp object.
Sefa said Mgaye wanted to become a police officer when he grew up. Both boys were in Grade 8.
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