Learners freed on bail in a high-profile case involving a fatal June stabbing at Lesedi Secondary School. Image credit: OFM News
(ThePostNews) – Learners freed on bail following a fatal stabbing at Lesedi Secondary School in Gauteng have once again brought national attention to the issue of safety in South African schools. Despite the serious nature of the charges against them, the two accused students were granted bail by the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrates’ Court.
Learners Freed on Bail Under Strict Court Conditions
The accused, 20-year-old Grade 12 learner Mlehalinye Montasi and 19-year-old Grade 10 learner Kgotlhello Mathabathe, were released on bail of R6,000 and R3,000 respectively. Both face charges of premeditated murder after allegedly fatally stabbing fellow Grade 10 learner Lethabo Mokonyane on June 17. Although the prosecution opposed the bail application, the magistrate approved their release with strict conditions. These include correctional supervision, a prohibition on any contact with witnesses, and mandatory attendance at all future court proceedings until the matter is resolved. The decision to grant learners freed on bail has sparked debate on the balance between justice and safety in schools.
Learners Freed on Bail as Legal Process Advances
Following their release, the case was postponed to October 10, when it will be transferred to the Regional Court for further proceedings. This transfer will allow for more detailed hearings and additional pre-trial activities. The incident has heightened concerns nationwide about violence within schools and the urgent need to improve safety protocols to protect learners and educators alike. The fact that learners freed on bail continue to await trial keeps the community alert to ongoing legal developments
The fatal stabbing reportedly occurred near the school premises. This shocking attack has raised serious questions about how to prevent such tragedies in educational environments. Although Lesedi Secondary School has not made a public statement, the case has sparked widespread calls from parents and community members for stronger security measures. The matter of learners freed on bail remains closely watched as it unfolds in court.
Recent similar incidents, such as a fatal stabbing involving a Grade 8 learner in Mpumalanga, demonstrate that school violence remains a growing problem in South Africa. The Department of Basic Education has acknowledged the increase in learner-on-learner violence and continues to advocate for early intervention and expanded counseling services to address this crisis.
As this case proceeds through the courts, the focus remains on ensuring justice while also addressing the psychological and emotional effects such violence has on learners and school communities.
Please share your thoughts contact Thembeka via email: Journalist-thembeka@thepostnews.net
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