Pupil raped & murdered, cousin arrested

GAUTENG – The body of a grade 11 pupil from the Chipa Tabane Secondary School in Refilwe, near Pretoria, has been found. According to the Gauteng department of education the girl’s mother reported her missing on Sunday after she failed to return home.

“It’s alleged that they found the learner’s lifeless body in one of the rooms at the cousin’s house. Police were then called to the scene. According to information at our disposal, the learner was allegedly sexually assaulted before being strangled to death. The suspect handed himself over to the police on Monday night,” said Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona said.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane is shocked and saddened by the incident.

“We are deeply devastated by the passing of our dear learner, especially through such gruesome circumstances. We solemnly sympathise with her beloved family, extending our sincerest condolences to them and the school community at large” he said.

The suspect appeared in the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. He remains in custody.