Investigators process the scene outside Ntabankulu Primary School following a deadly attack on staff. Picture Credit: IOL
By Aisha Zardad
Eastern Cape — Two female educators were shot dead and a third critically wounded on Thursday, January 22, 2026, after a disgraced former teacher opened fire at Ntabankulu Primary School, police confirmed. The suspected gunman, who had previously worked at the school, also died at the scene after apparently turning the firearm on himself.
According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, the attack took place at about 12 pm when the suspect allegedly cut through the perimeter fence and entered the school grounds. He then opened fire on three female teachers. Two of the educators succumbed to their injuries, and the third remains in critical condition in hospital.
Gantana told reporters that the suspect had previously been dismissed from his teaching post in 2023 and was on bail facing sexual assault charges involving learners at the time of the incident. A full probe is underway, including inquiries into how he breached bail conditions and gained access to the school.
Acting Provincial Police Commissioner Major-General Thandiswa Kupiso described the shootings as “a deeply shocking and violent act”, extending condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased and expressing support for the injured victim. “Our thoughts are also with the injured victims, and we wish them a full recovery,” she said, condemning the violence in the strongest terms.
