RADHICA DE SILVA
Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
Intruders from warring gangs Six and Seven engaged in a bloody brawl at the Palo Seco Government Secondary School on Thursday wounding several students.
While police sources say at least 12 pupils were hurt, Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly confirmed that five pupils had been taken for medical treatment at the hospital.
Initial reports from police say the wounds were inflicted with a pair of scissors. Three students were taken to the Siparia District Health Facility and one was subsequently transferred to the Point Fortin Hospital.
A source who requested anonymity said the fight broke out during the first recess at 10 am.
Parents who came to collect their children told Guardian Media that teachers seemed to have lost control of students and were afraid to intervene. The source also said the principal's office was damaged during the melee.
Contacted for comment Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly confirmed the incident saying: "There was a stabbing incident at Palo Seco Secondary this morning. The five students injured were taken for medical attention. There is no indication that any student is critically injured at this time."
She also denied that the school was dismissed.
"It is in session I await a full report as investigations are ongoing," she added.
CNC3 News also contacted the President of the T&T Unified Teachers Association Martin Lum Kin for comment and we are awaiting his response.