Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, is dismayed and mourns the tragic death of two learners who were reportedly shot and killed in Alexandra on the evening of Monday, 5 October 2026.
The deceased were a Grade 12 learner from Minerva Secondary School and a 17-year-old Grade 9 learner from Alexandra High School.
Preliminary information indicates that the learners were fatally shot on Alfred Nzo Street, opposite Madala Hostel in Alexandra. The circumstances surrounding the shooting, including its motive and the events preceding it, remain the subject of a South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation.
“We are deeply dismayed by the loss of two young lives under such tragic circumstances. Regardless of the circumstances that may ultimately be established by the police investigation, the death of learners through violence is deeply concerning. Our communities have an important role to play in creating safer environments for young people and protecting them from violence, criminality and circumstances that threaten their lives and futures,” said MEC Maile.
“The African idiom teaches us that it takes a village to raise a child. This tragedy must therefore remind us that protecting and guiding our children requires the involvement of the whole community. Government and law-enforcement agencies must continue their work to combat criminality, but they cannot do it alone. Parents, community structures, religious leaders, young people and residents must stand together against criminality, promote safer communities and ensure that our children are protected.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, fellow learners, educators and school communities affected by this tragedy. Anyone who may have information that could assist the investigation or lead to the arrest of those responsible is urged to provide that information to the police at Alexandra Police Station. Communities must work with law-enforcement authorities to ensure that those responsible for criminal acts are brought to justice,” added MEC Maile.
The Gauteng Department of Education will provide the necessary psychosocial support to the affected school communities.
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