- – while police launch manhunt for suspected robbers
Police in Maun are investigating two separate criminal incidents that occurred over the weekend, including the stabbing of a form three learner and an armed robbery at a local restaurant.
The first incident involved two 16-year-old boys who are both form three learners at Moeti Junior Secondary School. According to police, one of the boys allegedly stabbed the other with a knife on Friday, the day schools closed for the winter holidays, leaving the victim in critical condition at the hospital.
Confirming the incident, Maun Police Assistant Superintendent Moutlwatsi Ikobeng said the stabbing took place outside the school premises, but not far from it.
He said the suspect allegedly stabbed the victim on the head with a knife before fleeing the scene. The injured learner was rushed to Letsholathebe II Memorial hospital, where he remains admitted in a critical condition.
Assistant Superintendent Ikobeng said the suspect has since been charged with unlawful wounding. Since he is a minor, he has been released into the care of his family under close monitoring while investigations continue.
He explained that police are still waiting for the victim to recover and be discharged from hospital so that investigators can obtain his account of what happened. The outcome of the victim’s injuries may also determine whether additional charges will be preferred against the suspect.
Although the incident happened outside the school grounds, Ikobeng urged learners to conduct themselves responsibly, particularly on the last day of school when excitement is often high.
He appealed to students to avoid violence and instead resolve disagreements peacefully. He also encouraged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children during the school holidays and to talk to them about the consequences of carrying dangerous weapons and engaging in violent behaviour.
In a separate incident, police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at a local restaurant at the Old Mall in Maun on Sunday the 12th at around 7:00am.
Assistant Superintendent Ikobeng said two unidentified men entered the restaurant while only one female attendant was on duty. The suspects allegedly threatened the attendant with knives and demanded money. They reportedly warned her that if she did not hand over the cash voluntarily, they would take it by force.
Fearing for her safety, the attendant complied and handed over the money. The suspects reportedly fled with approximately P700 in cash before police arrived at the scene. No injuries were reported during the robbery. Police have launched investigations and are searching for the two suspects.
Ikobeng appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or have information that could assist the investigation to report it to the nearest police station. He said even small pieces of information could help identify and arrest those responsible.
He also encouraged business owners to strengthen security measures, he further urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious behaviour promptly and continue working with law enforcement to help reduce crime in the community.
