Cape Town – A student was shot dead and three others injured during a violent protest at Walter Sisulu University (WSU) in Mthatha on Tuesday morning.
According to reports, students took to the streets in the early hours to express frustration over service delivery issues at the university, particularly the lack of water in the residences. Their protest was directed at a university staff member – the residence warden – whom they accused of neglect and poor governance.
In an interview with the SABC, Acting District Commissioner Brigadier Vukile Ntuli confirmed that the protest escalated when students marched to the warden’s residence to voice their grievances.
“In the early hours of today (Tuesday), the students were reported to be in an unrest and as a result of that, they approached the warden here within the institution and they complained of the bad state of affairs within the institution, particularly, the non-availability of water in the institution,” Ntuli said.
MTHATHA – One student was fatally shot DEAD and three others injured at Walter Sisulu University, allegedly by a residence manager. The motive is unknown. Police are investigating. The university has yet to comment. More updates to follow. pic.twitter.com/Z9GQddCIQN
— Buffalo City Insider (@buffalo_insider) April 15, 2025
“So they approached the warden at his residence where he is staying with his wife and his two kids. So they started stoning them there and then out of the stoning, the warden retaliated by fighting do as to wade off the attack. Then in that process, he shot two of the students, one of whom was rushed to hospital and was taken out immediately but the other one died accidentally in the process.”
Ntuli confirmed that police are investigating the incident.
“We are already crafting some cases, regarding all the incidents that took place. The murder, the attempted murder and everything that took place here – will be looked into and investigated even further.”
When asked about the possible arrest of the warden, Ntuli said: “If the allegations are to be true and he is the one involved in the allegation, then definitely he will be charged – but it is a matter that is still under investigation.”
In response to the tragic events, education activist Hendrick Makaneta expressed outrage and called for urgent action, IOL reported.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the deceased, and we wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured.
“Universities should be safe havens for students, places where they can pursue their academic goals without fear of violence or harm.
“We demand action from SAPS and the university to address this incident and prevent future occurrences. The time for words is over; it’s time for action. We will be watching closely to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that our universities are made safer for all,” said Makaneta.
Users on X, also shared their thoughts:
Why are they using live ammunition to unarmed students 🚮
— Buntu-Bonke (@Buntu_Bokweni) April 15, 2025
Bantu students are killing Bantu students because the Bantu ANC deployed thieves stole the money to pay their fees and accommodation. Bad things are happening in South Africa @FoxNews
— ExComrat X (@KeithMutch) April 15, 2025
It’s sad to see how my former school, has turned into an action film set. When did residence managers become armed marshals? This isn’t Die Hard: University Edition. Students came to study, not to learn bullet trajectory firsthand. If this is what campus safety looks like, then…
— In A Nutshell🥜 (@Markosonke1) April 15, 2025
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Picture: X/@ZizinjaAbelungu
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Compiled by Anda Tolibadi
