By: Natasha Archary
A father was shot and killed whilst trying to prevent a hijacking outside a Soweto school on Tuesday, 11 October.
An unknown number of armed men had targeted a female scholar transport driver while she was waiting to pick up the children after school.
The Gauteng Department of Education confirmed the hijacking and shooting which took place outside Faranani Primary School in Protea Glen.
According to reports, the incident occured between 13h00 and 14h00 and police are investigating a case of hijacking and murder.
“This tragic incident took place in front of the school’s main gate, in full view of learners and staff members. One of the parents who witnessed the woman being held at gunpoint, tried to intervene and prevent the hijacking. Unfortunately, one of the gunman shot the parent who died on scene.
The suspects then jumped into the woman’s vehicle and drove away.”
The father is being hailed for his bravery as he risked his life to prevent a crime but his death has highlighted the high rate of violent crimes in the country.
A Psychosocial team will be visiting the school to provide support to all learners and teachers who were left traumatised by the incident.
“We wish to express our deepest condolences to the family of the brave parent who lost his life in an attempt to prevent this criminal act. As the Department, we have committed to dispatching our Psychosocial Team to the school to provide necessary counselling and support to all those who witnessed the incident unfold, and others who may be traumatized by it”
Gauteng MEC Matome Chiloane



