Strict bail conditions set for Milnerton High learners in assault case

Eight learners from Milnerton High School charged with assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm are expected to return to the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday as the case linked to a widely circulated school assault video continues.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed that the accused face eight counts of assault stemming from an incident that occurred in October 2025 and was later shared extensively on social media.

Six of the accused appeared in Court 26, while two juveniles appeared separately in Court 19. Their first court appearance took place on 23 October 2025.

“The accused were released on bail and warning after their first appearance,” Ntabazalila said. “This decision was based on the fact that they have fixed addresses, no previous convictions, no outstanding warrants and no pending cases.”

Although bail was unopposed, Ntabazalila said it was accompanied by stringent conditions designed to protect complainants and witnesses. These include a prohibition on any form of contact, whether direct or indirect, and instructions that the accused must immediately remove themselves should they encounter complainants.

“They are also barred from entering the school premises until the matter is finalised,” he said.

As part of the investigation, the accused were ordered to hand over their cellphones and PINs. “Five cellphones were surrendered in court. One outstanding device was ordered to be submitted to the investigating officer within 24 hours,” Ntabazalila said.

Further conditions prohibit any form of intimidation and require the accused to refrain from criminal activity while the case is pending.

The matter was postponed to January 20 to allow the accused to complete their final examinations. Ntabazalila confirmed that they were instructed to study from home, with the Western Cape Department of Education making alternative arrangements for them to write exams at the Metro North District Office.

The case stems from a video that circulated in October 2025 showing a group of older learners allegedly assaulting a younger pupil during what was described as an initiation ritual. The footage sparked widespread public outrage and reignited debate around school violence and when bullying escalates into criminal conduct.

As previously reported by the Cape Argus, the assault allegedly took place on October 16 2025 and involved the use of belts, a wooden log and hockey sticks. Eight learners were subsequently suspended and charged. Six adult accused were granted R2,000 bail each, while the two minors were released on warning.

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