Bushbuckridge – A Grade 9 learner, Nobuhle Lukhele (15), was hospitalized after being poisoned at Bhekiswayo High School. The incident, which occurred during school hours, has left the community in shock.
According to eyewitnesses, Nobuhle received a lunchbox from her younger half-brother, Thamsanqa Lukhele (14), before the start of classes. The two learners are siblings from their father’s side, but their mothers are separated.
Thamsanqa explained: “My mom packed two lunchboxes this morning and told me to give one to my sister, Buhle, along with R100. I gave her the food first thing when I arrived at school. I was later called from my Grade 8 classroom after break, and I found her lying down, vomiting, and complaining of stomach pain. I don’t know what happened or how it came to this.”
The school principal confirmed that doctors verified Nobuhle was poisoned, though the source of the poisoning remains unclear. Some of Nobuhle’s friends claimed she bought snacks from a school vendor, known as Mama Ngomane, before falling ill. However, the vendor denied any wrongdoing.
“I have been selling food here for eight years, and the children have always eaten from me without any problems. My daughter is in college because of this business—I would never jeopardize it by harming anyone,” said Mama Ngomane.
As a precautionary measure, the principal has temporarily suspended Mama Ngomane from operating on the school premises while the investigation continues.
The situation has also drawn attention to Nobuhle’s strained family dynamics. Her stepmother, Kedibone Lukhele, confirmed that she regularly sends food and money to Nobuhle. “It’s not the first time I’ve sent a lunchbox through my son. I always try to support Nobuhle despite the tension with her mother. Last December, I even bought her clothes worth R3,000, but her mother burned them, claiming they were bewitched.”
Kedibone expressed frustration over the allegations against her. “I’ve been part of this family for 14 years. I have no reason to harm Nobuhle. I’ve supported her since she was in primary school. Why would I poison her now?”
Nobuhle is currently receiving medical treatment, and her condition is being closely monitored. Authorities have requested privacy regarding the hospital and ward details, citing the sensitivity of the case.
The police are investigating the incident and have not ruled out any possibilities. The school community and Nobuhle’s family are praying for her recovery.
Credits
Story by: Getrude Mofokeng
Source: #BushbuckridgeMedia
Stay Updated with HMR News Updates
📧 Email: info@hmrnewsupdates.com
📞 Contact: +27 66 427 6676
© 2025 HMR News Updates. All Rights Reserved.
