GQEBERHA – A Nelson Mandela University (NMU) student has been killed and another seriously injured following a brutal knife attack during a robbery at off-campus student accommodation in Summerstrand.
According to police, an armed suspect entered the student residence in Admiralty Way, Summerstrand at approximately 19:15 on Monday 13 October.
Police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge confirmed the incident: “SAPS Humewood has launched a manhunt for a male suspect (estimated about 25 years old) after he murdered a student and injured another during a house robbery in Summerstrand,” he shared. “The suspect fled the scene with two cellphones and a laptop.”
A 23-year-old female student died at the scene while an injured 20-year-old was taken to hospital for medical treatment.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance Student Organisation (DASO) expressed outrage and sadness over the loss of life.
In a statement, DASO said: “We are outraged and deeply saddened by the brutal attack that took place last night in which two students were viciously stabbed during a robbery. This heartbreaking incident has once again exposed the dangerous reality faced by students, where living in fear has become a daily occurrence.”
The organisation has requested that students refrain from circulating videos and photographs taken at the scene to allow families time to process the tragic news and mourn in peace.
NMU management has since extended heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the victims.
“Nelson Mandela University is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred at an off-campus student accommodation in Summerstrand last night,” the statement read.
“The University extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and peers of the student who passed away and wishes the injured student a full and speedy recovery.”
Mental health and trauma support is being provided for the affected students, with counselling and psychosocial support made available through the University’s Emthonjeni Student Wellness unit.
Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Rudwaan Baatjies at Humewood Detectives on 073 130 3018 or via Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
