A shocking development has unfolded at Inxiweni Primary School in Thembisa, where a 26-year-old financial clerk has been arrested in connection with the brutal murders of the school’s principal and an administration clerk. The tragic incident, which has sent waves of grief and outrage through the education community, took place on Tuesday afternoon inside the school’s administration block.
According to police reports, the financial clerk—whose name has not yet been released to the public—was taken into custody on Wednesday night. She is currently being detained at Thembisa Police Station and faces two counts of murder following the deaths of 58-year-old school principal, **Ruth Tabu**, and 55-year-old admin clerk, **Nobantu Njombane**.
Investigations suggest that the motive behind the killings may be linked to financial irregularities discovered within the school. The suspect had reportedly been questioned about a suspicious transaction amounting to **R52 750**, allegedly transferred from the school’s account into a personal account. Shortly after this discrepancy was raised, the two senior staff members were fatally shot at close range in their offices.
Police believe that the financial clerk may have **hired hitmen** to carry out the murders in an attempt to silence those who had questioned her about the transaction. Authorities say she was found in possession of petty cash that she was allegedly intending to hand over as payment to the hired killers. As part of the investigation, her phone and laptop have been seized for forensic analysis.
The severity of the case has prompted swift action from the highest levels of government. Gauteng Premier **Panyaza Lesufi**, along with other senior officials, attended the crime scene shortly after the incident. Their presence underscores the urgency and priority assigned to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring the safety of staff and learners across the province.
Community members, parents, and colleagues of the victims remain devastated by the loss of the two respected educators. Principal Tabu and Clerk Njombane were widely regarded as pillars of the school—dedicated, hardworking women committed to the wellbeing of learners and the smooth running of the institution. Their sudden deaths have left a void that will be felt deeply by the school community.
Police have assured the public that the investigation is progressing rapidly. Additional arrests may follow as detectives continue to track down the suspected hitmen involved in the shootings. The arrested clerk is expected to appear in court soon, where formal charges will be presented.
This tragic incident has raised renewed concerns about school safety, internal accountability, and the lengths individuals may go to in an attempt to conceal wrongdoing. As the community mourns, authorities remain determined to uncover the full truth and ensure that justice is served for the families of Principal Ruth Tabu and Admin Clerk Nobantu Njombane.
