Police in Cradock together with the Department of Education are investigating circumstances surrounding the 5-year-old boy who was found locked in a classroom on May 15 – three days after he was reported missing.
According to police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, after the case of a missing child was reported to police, the police conducted searches for the 5-year-old boy, who was reported missing on May 12.
He said it is alleged that the boy did not return home from school on May 12 and was reported missing at SAPS Cradock on the same day.
“Three days later, police were informed that the child was later found under dubious circumstances, which are currently under investigation,” said Nkohli.
He said it was alleged that the child was locked inside a classroom.
“The boy was hospitalised and is in a stable condition,” said Nkohli.
According to Eastern Cape Education Department spokesperson, Malibongwe Mtima, the department visited the school on May 18 to gather information from the school and the School Governing Body.
He further said that an investigation is underway.
Mtima said the the boy returned home from Dora Nginza Hospital and the department is expected to activate psychosocial support for the young child and his family.
“Everyone who is supposed to get support is getting the necessary support,” said Mtima.
He said he is awaiting the full report which should be released on May 19 or on May 22.
