A brutal attack has left one teenager dead and two others injured in Umlazi in the South of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) after a group of men allegedly demanded a protection fee from pupils who were selling sweets.
According to unconfirmed reports, three pupils from Menzi High School were selling sweets along Maponya Road in N Section on Friday, when they were approached by a group of men.
The suspects allegedly demanded a protection fee. When the pupils refused to pay, the situation turned violent.
Knives were drawn. A 19-year-old pupil was stabbed and died at the scene. Two other pupils, aged 17 and 19, sustained stab wounds and were injured. They have been rushed to hospital for treatment.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda has confirmed that a case of murder and two counts of attempted murder have been opened. A manhunt is currently underway as police search for the suspects.
The victims were reportedly selling sweets to earn some income, a common practice among many school pupils in the area. The attack has highlighted growing concerns over extortion and gang-related violence targeting young people.
The Umlazi community has been left in shock and outrage, with many calling for swift justice and greater protection for schoolchildren.
Police urge anyone with information about the suspects to contact Umlazi SAPS immediately.