Police have opened an arson case after a fire severely damaged Maphephetheni Secondary School in Inanda, Durban. The blaze, which broke out on Friday, destroyed the school’s administration block, including the principal’s office, the staffroom, and a commerce classroom.
Textbooks, reports, and other critical resources were lost in the fire.
According to investigators, evidence suggests the fire was deliberately set inside the building. A police spokesperson indicated that the pattern of damage points to an internal ignition, explaining that someone entered and threw something inside. Investigators also noted that the fire started inside a classroom and spread from there, adding that they are following leads in another direction regarding a suspect who may have been present in the area.
Parents expressed alarm over the state of the school even before the fire, citing poor conditions. One parent described how a Grade 11 classroom had ongoing issues with water leaking when it rains, forcing students to study under pressure. Windows were described as broken, with a high ceiling structure that now poses additional risks.
A parent highlighted the danger, appealing to the government and the Department of Education to intervene urgently for the sake of the children.
The school’s principal confirmed that teachers and pupils are on edge. The motive for the fire remains unknown, and no suspects have been arrested.
“We do not feel safe,” the principal said. “We don’t know what next move. Emotionally, mentally, teachers and learners need professional help.”
The KwaZulu-Natal education department has been asked to address the matter. The investigation continues.