JOHANNESBURG – Police in the Eastern Cape have identified three suspects in connection with the alleged rape of a former seven-year-old Bergview College learner. One of the suspects has been confirmed as the school’s principal, according to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

The alleged incident, which occurred on school grounds last year, has raised serious concerns over child safety within the community. Minister Mchunu has classified the case as a priority, stating that the investigation is being treated with the utmost seriousness.

In a statement on Saturday, Mchunu confirmed that the investigation has secured all necessary witness statements. DNA samples have been collected from the suspects, and authorities are committed to ensuring justice is served.

The police investigation followed a lack of cooperation from Bergview College, which led to the Provincial Education Department deregistering the school for its failure to assist in the inquiry. Initially, the school had not provided sufficient details regarding the incident until a 24-hour ultimatum was issued by the Department of Education.

Department spokesperson Vuyiseka Mboxele warned that if the school continued its non-cooperation, it would face potential closure over safety concerns. The department made it clear that should the school be shut down, affected learners would be relocated to nearby schools.

Minister Mchunu emphasized that a prosecutor would be consulted in the coming week as the investigation progresses. Authorities remain determined to bring those responsible for this disturbing incident to justice.