Learning was interrupted at the Phikiswayo Primary School in Ntuzuma, outside Durban in KwaZulu Natal, this morning when two unknown men shot and killed a female teacher. The teacher was identified as Dudu Khumalo, who was conducting a morning prayer session when she was killed.

SHOT AND KILLED

According to an educator from the school who wished not to be named, two unknown men got off a white sedan before they entered the school. "A white car pulled up at the gate,and two unknown men jumped off and came straight to the school where we were attending the prayer session. There was no communication between the teacher and the two guys. They just went straight to her and shot her a couple of times. Everyone ran for cover and they walked back to their car and sped off. We don't know why she was killed because she had no position at school but was an ordinary employee," the teacher said. KZN SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the police in Ntuzuma are investigating a case of murder following an incident in which a 46-year-old woman was allegedly shot and killed inside school premises. "Information at the police's disposal at this stage indicates that two unknown suspects fired several shots at the victim before fleeing from the scene. The woman was declared dead at the scene," he said.

DISTRESSED

The MEC for Education in KZN, Sipho Hlomuka, said they were deeply distressed by Khumalo's death. He said the district director, circuit managers and representatives from the Special Needs Education Services (SNES) have been dispatched to the scene to provide support and assistance to the affected parties. "We are heartbroken by the loss of a dedicated educator. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and school community during this devastating time,' he said. Hlomuka called upon law enforcement to expedite their investigation to ensure justice is served. We urge anyone with information to assist the police.