A 21-year-old student attending the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) is facing an attempted murder charge in connection with a stabbing incident in Belhar last week.

The Western Cape SAPS confirmed that the suspect was arrested following an incident in which a female victim was stabbed at around 02:00 on 9 September. Police noted that the incident occurred at student accommodation on Varsity Street. 

According to reports, the alleged perpetrator was waiting in the victim’s room before attacking and stabbing her several times. The victim was hospitalised and has reportedly since been discharged.  

SAPS spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala noted that the suspect made his first appearance at the Bellville Magistrates Court on 11 September.  

“Belhar police opened a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm… The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation,” said Gwala.  

The suspect, identified in reports as Katlego Kgaswane, returned to court on 16 September for bail information. The National Prosecuting Authority has advised that the charge against the accused has since changed.  

NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila noted that the accused is charged with attempted murder, further noting that he’s back in court on Friday for a bail application.  

At the same time, the accused is facing disciplinary action from CPUT. 

CPUT spokesperson, Lauren Kansley, noted that “internal disciplinary processes” have been instituted, adding that the representatives of the university also attended court proceedings on Thursday. 

“We were also present at court to ensure that the accused is not able to use a student residence address as a primary residence in any bail bid which he may launch,” said Kansley.  

Kansley said the internal disciplinary matter will take place alongside the criminal one. She said the university is seeking to suspend the accused student.  

“His imminent suspension from CPT will ensure that he is not able to return to residence nor classes. The necessary counselling and clinic services are activated to assist the victim.”