Staff Reporter
The principal of Samit Christian Academy, an independent school in Kempton Park, was killed in what police said was a suspected house robbery in the early hours of Sunday in Maokeng Extension, Tembisa.
A suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder, the South African Police Service said.
The Voice of Tembisa FM named the principal as 61-year-old Simon Lubisi.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane extended condolences to the principal’s family, the school community, learners, and colleagues.
“Another brutal and senseless act of violence has once again robbed the Gauteng education sector of a school leader. The Department extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, the school community, learners and colleagues during this period of immense grief. We also wish the family members a speedy and full recovery,” he said on Monday.
He praised the police for their swift response and called for a thorough investigation to bring all responsible parties to justice.
“The loss of another principal to violent crime is devastating and deeply concerning. The GDE reiterates its call for strengthened community safety measures and continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies, communities and social partners to protect educators and school leaders,” Chiloane said.
“Violence against educators and school leaders undermines the stability of our schools and threatens the future of our children. We condemn this heinous act in the strongest terms and stand in solidarity with the family, the school and the broader education community,” he said.
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