A six-year-old girl who was allegedly stabbed multiple times inside a classroom at a school in Umhlali is recovering in intensive care following surgery, as a teenage suspect remains in police custody.
The disturbing incident happened on Tuesday morning, 13 October, at The Creative Classroom in Umhlali, on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast.
The child was initially reported to be in a critical condition after allegedly being attacked inside a classroom occupied by learners and an educator.
According to an update provided on Wednesday, the girl underwent surgery and her family is hopeful that she will make a full recovery.
IPSS Medical Rescue spokesperson Samantha Meyrick confirmed the latest developments, while the family has requested privacy during the child’s recovery.
What happened inside the Umhlali classroom?
According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Sergeant Thenjiswa Ngcobo, preliminary information suggests that a teenage boy entered a classroom where learners and an educator were present.
The suspect allegedly locked the door before stabbing the six-year-old girl multiple times and attempting to flee the scene.
The circumstances surrounding how the suspect gained access to the premises remain a key part of the investigation.
Emergency medical personnel responded to the incident and treated the injured child before she was transported to a specialised medical facility for further care.
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Reports published on Tuesday indicated that the suspect was apprehended at the scene and subsequently taken into police custody.
Teenager faces attempted murder and assault charges
Police confirmed that a 16-year-old boy had been arrested in connection with the stabbing.
Ngcobo said the teenager was facing charges of attempted murder and assault and was expected to appear before the KwaDukuza Magistrates’ Court.
Police also revealed that a preliminary investigation had established that the suspect had previously been arrested for intimidation in April 2026.
The previous arrest is part of the background disclosed by police. The current charges remain allegations, and the case must proceed through the criminal justice system.
School community left traumatised
The stabbing has raised serious concerns about the safety of young learners and the security of school premises.
The incident unfolded while children and an educator were inside the classroom, according to the police account.
The girl’s family is now focused on her recovery following surgery, while the family’s request for privacy should be respected.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack is ongoing.
DurbanSun will continue to follow developments in the case, including any further police updates and information released through the court process.
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