Criminal investigation launched after viral assault at Eastwood Secondary School

A criminal investigation is underway following the assault of a pupil at Eastwood Secondary School in Pietermaritzburg.

The incident has gone viral on social media platforms, with video footage showing the defenceless learner being attacked by another pupil inside a classroom.

The provincial Education Department has condemned the incident in the strongest terms, saying violence has no place in schools.

Following the incident, officials from the Education Department visited the school along with school governing body members to address the matter.

On Monday, police officers also went to the school to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident before laying charges.

MEC Sipho Hlomuka says a case has been opened, with investigations underway. He added that the perpetrator has been suspended pending the outcomes of the probe.