Police are investigating an alleged assault on officers and a case of attempted murder following a violent confrontation at a high school in Nakampe Village, Bolobedu, on Tuesday, 01 September 2026.
Police called to the school
Officers were called to the school to assist with a complaint involving a learner who had allegedly made threats. A teacher informed the attending members of the situation and requested help to escort a 21-year-old learner so that he could collect his parents.
Confrontation with learners
After the learner finished writing an examination, the officers approached him to accompany him home. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the learner allegedly resisted and pushed one of the officers. A second officer stepped in to assist his colleague.
A large group of learners then emerged from classrooms and began throwing stones and plastic bottles at the police. As the situation turned volatile, one officer drew his service firearm and fired a single warning shot into the ground in an attempt to disperse the crowd. The officers subsequently managed to leave the school premises.
Injury to learner
Shortly afterwards it was reported that a 16-year-old learner had sustained a gunshot wound to his left leg during the incident. He was first taken to a local clinic and later referred to hospital for further medical treatment.
IPID investigation
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been informed and is investigating the circumstances surrounding the teenager's injury. Two cases have been opened – assault on a police officer and attempted murder. The circumstances relating to the attempted murder charge form part of the ongoing IPID probe.
Call for calm
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers has urged learners and members of the community to respect police officers performing their duties, remain calm and refrain from acts of violence.
“Police officers have a duty and responsibility to respond to any complaints and to maintain safety within the communities, including schools. Any concerns regarding police conduct must be reported through the appropriate channels and should never result in violence. At the same time, circumstances surrounding this incident must be thoroughly investigated,” Scheepers said.