Principal and Staff Member Fatally Shot at Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa

Tragedy Strikes Inxiweni Primary School

Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni, South Africa, was the scene of a double homicide on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, when the school's 58-year-old principal and a 55-year-old administrative staff member were fatally shot. The incident, which occurred around 5 PM inside the school's administration block, has sent shockwaves through the community and the broader education sector.

Details of the Incident

According to preliminary reports from the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), the two women were reportedly preparing for a meeting scheduled for later in the week when the shooting took place. Colleagues in a nearby office heard gunshots and, fearing for their safety, hid. Upon emerging, they discovered the principal and the administrator lying in the passage of the administration block. Emergency services were called to the scene, but both victims were declared dead upon arrival.

Police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhlulwi confirmed that a full investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the killings. As of Wednesday morning, no arrests have been made, and the motive behind the brutal act remains unknown.

Official Condemnation and Support

The incident has drawn strong condemnation from government officials. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Education MEC Matome Chiloane visited the school on Tuesday evening to assess the scene and offer condolences to the grieving families.

MEC Chiloane described the killings as a 'senseless and brutal act committed within a school, a place meant to be a sanctuary for teaching and learning.' He emphasized the department's commitment to supporting the school community and called for the perpetrator to be found and brought to justice swiftly.

In response to the tragedy, the GDE announced that

• Psychosocial support teams from the Ekurhuleni North District will be deployed to the school to provide trauma counselling to learners and staff.
• Employee wellness officials will also be on site to assist affected workers.

The timing of the shooting has also been noted, occurring during a week dedicated to raising awareness for gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa.