South African authorities have suspended eight students in connection with an alleged bullying incident at Milnerton High School in Cape Town, which has triggered national concern. A video circulated on social media depicts an assault involving multiple students striking a fellow pupil with various objects, including a hockey stick, hose pipe, and belt. Reports suggest that the assaulted boy was part of a group of nine students who faced similar treatment.
The incident occurred on October 16 and has attracted widespread condemnation from organizations and political parties. The police have confirmed that an assault case has been initiated. The mother of the 16-year-old victim informed local news outlet News24 that her son recently completed cancer treatment earlier in the year. Following the incident, the boy’s uncle mentioned that he has since been removed from the school.
Amnesty International South Africa described the video as “deeply disturbing” and called for prompt disciplinary measures against those involved. In the footage, the boy is seen pleading for the violence to cease while one attacker continues to strike him, evoking laughter from other students. Some bystanders reportedly cheered as the assault unfolded.
The South African education ministry has communicated with the Western Cape education department regarding the situation and noted that disciplinary action would be taken against the suspended students. The provincial department emphasized the seriousness of the matter. Both the education ministry and local authorities have requested that the public refrain from sharing the video or details about the involved pupils, as it may worsen the victim’s trauma and violate the rights of those involved.
The chairperson of parliament’s education committee expressed significant concern, stating that the incident raises issues beyond simple bullying and approaches criminal behavior. Community members have gathered outside the school to protest, while the institution remains operational.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq6zyq9vggno?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss