Court Hears Alleged Pretoria School Arsonist Was Previously Dismissed

The man who allegedly set fire to Zodwa Special School in Atteridgeville is Moloko Calvin Ramogwadi, a former contractor employee responsible for construction work at the school. Ramogwadi, aged 34, appeared in the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on Monday, facing charges of two counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder, as per news24.

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According to Gauteng National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana, Ramogwadi had been dismissed by the contractor just last Tuesday. However, he returned to the school premises the following Wednesday and allegedly initiated the devastating fire that engulfed the school.

Reportedly, Ramogwadi had visited the school to collect his tools, claiming to the employee who replaced him that he was there for this purpose. Tragically, instead of collecting his tools, he allegedly caused an explosion by throwing an open gas cylinder into a mobile classroom, igniting a fire that quickly spread while workers were still inside.

Also read: Tragedy Strikes: Atteridgeville School Gas Explosion Claims Two Lives, Injures Four

The blaze resulted in the tragic loss of life of two individuals, Paballo Lefata and Lebo Malepe, who were repairing two mobile classrooms. Additionally, three other workers – Neo Mamogale, Rosy Moeng, and Malaika Ngwetjana – suffered burn wounds due to the fire.

Zodwa Special School plays a critical role in the community by providing education and care to children with mental and physical disabilities.

Ramogwadi was visibly nervous during his appearance in court. He will return to court on 1 September, with the possibility of a bail application being considered.

Also read:

Arson Suspect Arrested: 2 Dead 4 Injured at Atteridgeville School

Picture: X / EducationGP1

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