Police in Malamulele, Limpopo, are searching for suspects involved in two violent school robberies that left one security guard tied up and several schools without vital teaching resources.
The robberies happened between Friday night and early Saturday morning, targeting Mahonisi Primary School and Humula High School in separate incidents.
Mahonisi Primary: Guard Tied Up, Locked in Safe
According to Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, provincial police spokesperson, the first robbery took place around 3am on Saturday at Mahonisi Primary School.
Four armed men wearing balaclavas attacked the security guard on duty.
“One suspect pointed a firearm at the guard and fired a shot before tying him up,” said Ledwaba.
The attackers forced the guard to lead them to the administration block, where they broke open an office safe and escaped with laptops, airtime vouchers, and an undisclosed amount of cash.
The school principal later found the guard locked inside the safe when staff arrived in the morning.
Humula High School Also Targeted
Hours later, Humula High School in Mukhomi village was hit in a similar fashion.
Ledwaba said the suspects broke into the administration block, cut open a safe, and stole laptops. Offices were left ransacked, with school records and property scattered across the floor.
Police believe the two incidents might be connected, given the timing and method used.
Police Condemn Attacks on Schools
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened cases of business robbery and business burglary. Both are being investigated by Sergeant Shadrack Mabunda of the Malamulele station.
Ledwaba condemned the crimes, describing them as attacks on rural education.
“These criminal acts disrupt learning and rob learners of tools meant to support their studies,” he said.
“We are doing everything possible to bring the perpetrators to book.”
Public Urged to Assist Investigations
Police are appealing for help from residents who may have information about the suspects.
“Anyone with information can contact Sergeant Shadrack Mabunda on 063 447 7375, or call Crime Stop at 08600 10111,” said Ledwaba.
“Tip-offs can also be shared anonymously via the My SAPS App.”
Schools Left Vulnerable
The robberies have reignited concerns over security at rural schools, where resources for fencing, lighting, and surveillance are often limited.
Local educators say these crimes set back learning and create fear among both staff and students.
As police investigations continue, communities are calling for stronger night patrols and rapid response systems to protect school infrastructure in Limpopo’s rural areas.
