Eastern Cape police have confirmed that a suspect has been arrested in connection with the shooting incident at Walter Sisulu University(WSU) campus in Mthatha on Tuesday, 15 April.
A WSU staff member allegedly murdered a third-year student while three others were injured during the incident, which has sparked outrage and concerns about the safety of students on campuses and in residences.
SUSPECT ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH WSU SHOOTING
Initially, WSU denied that the 24-year-old deceased was affiliated with the institution, whether as a student or staff member, despite his family and friends confirming that he was a student.
Regarding the protest, the university said it wasn’t aware, and disturbingly, during the protest, a group of people and students allegedly forcefully entered a staff member’s on-campus residence. In this violent incident, the staff member’s wife sustained serious injuries and was rushed to hospital.
“The staff member and his young children had to be rescued by the South African Police Services (SAPS). Precautionary measures have been taken to ensure the safety of other staff members who reside on campus,” WSU said on Tuesday.
SAPS spokesperson in the Eastern Cape Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said the 54-year-old suspect was arrested on Thursday, 17 April, in Mthatha.
“He has been charged with murder and attempted murder. He is due to appear in court on Tuesday, 22 April. While this arrest is a critical step, the investigation remains active. No further details will be released at this time to preserve the integrity of the case. Updates will be provided as appropriate,” Gantana said.
FOLLOWING THE MURDER OF A WSU STUDENT, DO YOU THINK ENOUGH IS BEING DONE TO PROTECT AND ENSURE THE SAFETY OF STUDENTS IN INSTITUTIONS AND RESIDENCES?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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