MBABANE – A Student Representative Council (SRC) member at the Eswatini College of Technology (ECOT) was reportedly abducted and assaulted by a group of eight people.
The student leader, whose identity has been withheld for safety reasons, was attacked around Manzana on Sunday night. He was allegedly forcefully taken from his residence to a nearby forest, where he was severely beaten and left unconscious.
Police have since launched a manhunt for seven suspects linked to the incident, including a member of a proscribed political organisation.
Information gathered by this publication indicates that the attack may be linked to internal disagreements among students over a proposed strike. Sources described as reliable said tensions had been building during a students’ meeting where the complainant openly opposed calls for industrial action.
It is alleged that during the meeting, he cautioned his fellow students against embarking on a strike, arguing that such action would not be prudent under the circumstances.
His stance is said to have angered some individuals, leading to heated exchanges.
“During the meeting, he made it clear that striking was not the best option at the time. Some people did not take that well,” said a source familiar with the proceedings.
According to a police report, the victim was assaulted with blunt force and open hands by seven men and one woman. After the assault, the suspects allegedly abandoned him in the forest, believing he was dead.
He was later discovered and rushed to Mbabane Government Hospital, where he was admitted in a critical condition. Medical personnel are said to be monitoring his condition closely.
Police confirmed the incident and stated that investigations were ongoing. A source who preferred to remain anonymous, as he is not authorised to speak to the media, said authorities were treating the matter as attempted murder. “We are actively looking for the suspects involved in this heinous act. We urge members of the public to come forward with any information that may assist in their arrest,” said the source.
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A Student representative Council member at the Eswatini College of Technology was reportedly abducted and assaulted by a group of eight people (File pic)