Umhlali stabbing update: Six-year-old recovering in ICU after surgery

A six-year-old girl who was allegedly stabbed multiple times at a school in Umhlali on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast is recovering in an intensive care unit after undergoing surgery.

The child was attacked on Tuesday morning in an incident that led to the arrest of a 16-year-old boy on charges of attempted murder and assault.

IPSS Medical Rescue spokesperson Samantha Meyrick told IOL on Wednesday that the girl had undergone surgery and that her family expected her to make a full recovery.

The family has requested privacy as she continues to receive medical care.

What happened at the Umhlali school?

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Sergeant Thenjiswa Ngcobo said the teenager allegedly entered a classroom occupied by learners and an educator before locking the door and stabbing the young girl repeatedly.

The suspect allegedly attempted to flee the scene but was arrested by police.

The circumstances surrounding the attack remain under investigation.

Teen remains in police custody

Ngcobo said the 16-year-old remains in police custody and is expected to appear before the KwaDukuza Magistrates’ Court.

A preliminary investigation also revealed that the teenager had previously been arrested on an intimidation charge in April 2026.

The latest update brings some hope for the child’s recovery following the serious attack. However, the allegations against the teenager have yet to be tested in court.