A security guard at a Free State high school has been shot and killed, in front of a pupil. The 49-year-old security guard was shot dead on Thursday evening at the Rantsane Secondary School in Qwa Qwa, and Free State Education MEC Makalo Mohale said he was "shocked" by the murder. "The deceased was allegedly killed with four bullets by a man wearing a balaclava who had gained unauthorised access to the school premises," said Makalo.

"On behalf of the entire education fraternity, I wish to send heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of [the victim]." Police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli said a murder case is under investigation after the shooting incident.
It is alleged that the deceased opened the gate for a learner who was going home after evening studies. When the learner was about to get out of the gate, an unknown person came from the sports grounds just outside the schoolyard and fired shots.

"Police were called to the scene and the body of the 49-year-old guard was found with two gunshot wounds to the body and leg. The suspect is unknown and has not yet been arrested. The motive for the incident is not known. " According to Mohale, a matric pupil witnessed the shooting. "The victim was declared dead at the scene. The circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated by the police," said Makalo.

Psychosocial support will be provided to pupils and teachers at the school.
Makalo called on police to apprehend the perpetrator responsible for "this barbaric and heartless act". He said the security guard had been described as a "father figure" to pupils. However, Makalo intends to visit the school on Monday.