A man who allegedly opened gas tanks and set a special school on fire appeared in the Atteridgeville magistrate’s court on Monday.
Calvin Ramogwadi faces two counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder after two contract workers died during the explosion last week. Three others were injured.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Ramogwadi was hired by a company to build extra classrooms at the Zodwa Special School in Atteridgeville in Pretoria.
However, on Tuesday last week, the company fired him.
NPA spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that a day after Ramogwadi was fired, he went back to the school.
“Another company employee asked why he was there, and he said he was [at the school to] collect his tools,” said Mahanjana.
“It is further alleged that Ramogwadi proceeded to open gas tanks while other workers were on site, resulting in the fire breaking out.”
Two workers died on the scene and three others were taken to the hospital.
Said Mahanjana: “The accused was arrested the same day after the incident and is remanded in custody.
“After his brief appearance in court, the matter was postponed to September 1 for further investigations and possible bail application.”
Meanwhile, Gauteng department of education spokesperson Steve Mabona on Monday condemned a protest by residents which led to classes at the school being suspended.
Mabona said the department is working with aggrieved residents to ensure that classes resume soon.
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