The case involving a young teenager accused of stabbing two learners at Helderberg High School has been postponed to Monday 14 December, with the 13-year-old facing charges of attempted murder.

The Grade 8 learner appeared in the Somerset West Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 27 October, where the case was postponed for further investigation.

The incident took place at the private school in Somerset West on Friday 23 October.

Warrant Officer Suzan Jantjies, spokersperson for Somerset West police, confirmed the incident took place at 07:45. “A Grade 8 learner allegedly confronted four other learners,” she said, adding that two were stabbed, one in the head and the other in the head and arm. The victims were transported to hospital.

Somerset West police originally charged the minor with two counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm before releasing him into the care of his parents. However, Eric Ntabazalila, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority in the Western Cape, said the charges the teenager appeared on attempted murder charges, adding he is unaware of the previous charges.

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In a statement, deputy principal Andrew Mason confirmed a serious incident had occurred within the school community. “Our immediate priority is the safety and well-being of all learners,” it read.

The school declined to provide further details out of respect for the privacy and dignity of those involved, confirming only that appropriate procedures were being followed.

“We ask the school community and the public to respect the privacy of those affected while the matter is being addressed.”

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