Pretoria – Higher Education, Science, and Innovation Minister Dr. Blade Nzimande on Thursday expressed his sorrow over the stabbing to death of a promising 18-year-old Community Education College student.
Dr. Nzimande said he was “saddened” by the killing of Mabutho Jenamo, who attended classes at Reneilwe Community Learning Centre in Mamelodi East, Gauteng.
Mabutho was with his fellow students on their way back home from school after the orientation day on Tuesday, (17 January), when they were pounced on by knife-wielding thugs.
Mabutho was robbed of his cellphone, and wallet before he was fatally stabbed. The other students were also robbed of their belongings.
“Minister Nzimande passes his condolences to the Jenamo family, friends and the entire Reneilwe Community Learning Centre,” the Department of Higher Education said in a statement.
“The Minister said Mabutho’s passing is a loss to the entire Post School Education and Training sector.
“‘Minister Nzimande is however satisfied that the four alleged killers were arrested by the law enforcement agencies following a tip-off by the members of the community who witnessed this heinous incident. “
Four suspects appeared before the Mamelodi West Court on Wednesday.
Their next appearance is on 25 January 2023.
“Minister Nzimande thanked the community of Mamelodi who responded swiftly by identifying the perpetrators and helping the police to apprehend them,” the department said.
“Through the Gauteng Community College and Higher Health, the Department of Higher Education and Training will continue to provide the necessary support to the family.”