Learner caught selling drugs inside school
A learner found with a bottle of Jack Daniels during a surprise school search in Bonteheuwel.
Image: supplied
A learner allegedly dealing in drugs inside a school, found with a significant amount of cash and drugs in his possession, was among the shocking finds made during a joint search operation of high schools in Bonteheuwel.
Ward councillor Angus McKenzie, alongside SAPS, Metro Police, Neighbourhood Watch, and Law Enforcement, visited all the high schools in the area to carry out the surprise operation on Thursday.
McKenzie said they uncovered cigarettes, lighters, vapes, knives, a bottle of Jack Daniels, cellphones and a learner allegedly actively dealing in drugs.
"Let that sink in. A child dealing drugs inside a place meant for learning, safety, and hope.
"This is exactly why these operations will not stop.
"In fact, they will become more frequent and more consistent. Because if we don’t intervene now, we lose our children to the same cycle we are fighting in our streets," McKenzie said.
Spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department, Bronagh Hammond, said Safe Schools officials are working with the schools and partners in every sector to implement plans to safeguard our public schools.
“There can be no excuse to engage in such activities in schools – it simply is not tolerated.
"Sadly, learners continue to transport illegal substances and items into schools. It is an ongoing issue that is being addressed through various channels.
"Schools are public spaces, and in terms of the Regulations for Safety Measures at Public Schools, 2001, as amended, the National Minister of Basic Education declared all public schools as drug-free and dangerous-weapon-free zones.
"Schools’ codes of conduct are also very clear on this and can include cigarettes, vapes and alcohol.
"We are thankful to law enforcement who assist us in conducting search and seizures in schools.
"These unexpected visits are extremely valuable and can deter learners from carrying weapons or dangerous substances into schools at the risk of being caught or actually being caught," said Hammond.
Section 8A of SASA, as well as section 45A of the Western Cape Provincial School Education Act, 1997 (Act 12 of 1997), allows for random search and seizure and testing for the use of illegal drugs if there is suspicion that it is being taken/used/distributed on the school premises.
"As the WCED, we will continue to implement programmes that assist in addressing school safety. We are also working together in the WCG across various departments to try and address the complex social issues that give rise to young people getting involved in gangs or anti-social behaviour,” said Hammond.