The Grade 5 girl was apparently taken at gunpoint by three males outside E. P. Baumann Primary School on Wednesday morning. 

“This happened outside the school gate while she was waiting in line to be sanitised and screened,” says the department’s Steve Mabona.

The department has urged any possible witnesses to contact the police.

“We are pleading with any member of the public who may have witnessed the abduction or knows anything about this incident to approach relevant law enforcement agencies.

“We condemn the actions of the criminal elements who prey on young learners and our prayers are with the family and friends of the young learner.”

Mabona says the psycho-social unit will provide assistance to pupils and staff. 

Police are investigating the incident.