POLICE at Mankweng are investigating a case of arson after unknownpeople set ablaze the staff room of the Makgongwana High School in Makanye village.

Damage caused by the fire is estimated at about R300000.

Mankweng police spokesperson Inspector Malan Nchabeleng said the incident happened in the early hours of Friday.

He said a security guard at the school told police he saw three young men entering the school premises, going towards the staff room.

The guard followed the men to investigate.

He then saw a huge fire coming from the staff room while the three men fled the scene.

The motive behind the men's action was unknown and police investigations are continuing.

Nchabeleng said a photocopying machine and several books were burnt to ashes.

"We are investigating a case of arson and are looking for the suspects. We also call on members of the community who might shed light on the matter to come forward," Nchabeleng said.

He said they were hoping to make an arrest soon.

But a source close to Sowetan hinted that teachers were at each other's throats, jostling for the vacant position of headmaster.