Mpumalanga-A parent of a learner at Fundawazi Primary School in Tweefontein K, Mpumalanga, says her eight-year-old daughter has attempted suicide after being moved to a new school following an alleged sexual assault.

The learner is among children whose parents have raised allegations against a 51-year-old school gardener, Bethwel Mahlangu.

Mahlangu has since abandoned his bail application citing being scared for his safety. He faces briefly a charge of sexual assault at the Kwaggafontein Magistrate’s Court. 

Mahlangu was initially arrested on a rape charge after a learner came forward. It is alleged that he may have targeted more than one learner at the school.

During his previous court appearance, additional parents came forward, alleging that their children may also have been affected.

The matter has raised concerns among parents and the wider school community, with calls for the allegations to be thoroughly investigated and for affected learners to receive appropriate support.