A flower-laying ceremony was held on Monday to honour 16-year-old Deveney Nel, a Grade 10 student who was found dead in a storeroom at Overberg High School in Caledon on Wednesday evening.
A search was undertaken after she didn’t show up for her ride home to Grabouw.
Her parents were informed of her death late on Wednesday. The school was closed on Thursday when SAPS started their investigation.
Deveney was allegedly stabbed in the neck and chest before being dragged into the storeroom, Rapport newspaper reported.
Principal Johan Jacobs said extra security measures have been put in place.
Jacobs, along with two ministers, spoke to sad students and parents.
“We ask you to stay strong during this difficult time,” Jacobs said.
“Our hearts are broken—not just mine and the Nel family’s, but those of our learners and parents. There are so many unanswered questions.”
The Department of Education has sent social workers and counsellors to help grieving students.
The SAPS are also involved, but Jacobs said the police had not yet contacted him or issued a statement.
Jacobs criticised the media for spreading “fake news” about the incident.
He said that school staff are not allowed to speak to the media because of the ongoing investigation.
Heinrich Wyngaard, executive chairman of the Cape Forum, raised concerns about how the investigation is being handled, including delays and possible interference at the crime scene.
Western Cape Education Minister David Manier confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.
Compiled by Staff Writer
Pictured above: 16-year-old Deveney Nel.
Source: X
