This is aimed at preventing criminal activities that continue to disrupt teaching and learning in schools across the province. This appeal follows a series of burglary incidents reported during the crucial Preparatory Examination period. 

It was affecting schools in the Ngaka Modiri Molema and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati Districts. North West Education MEC Viola Motsumi expressed outrage at the recent break-ins, describing the acts as deeply troubling and harmful to the province’s educational progress.

“On behalf of the department, I would like to condemn these barbaric activities and call all our communities to be very vigilant in their different areas. Communities near schools should report to the police any illegal activity taking place at school.”

‘United front in safeguarding schools’

She emphasised the importance of a united front in safeguarding schools, urging local structures to step up their involvement.  

“I am appealing to School Governing Bodies and School Quality Learning and Teaching Committees to work closely with the Community Policing Forums to guard against the destruction of schools. These criminal activities in our schools are delaying our progress in developing schools in totality within the province.”

In the Ngaka Modiri Molema District, Setumo Secondary School was reportedly targeted in a violent burglary in the early hours of Wednesday (17/9). The school’s security guard was held at gunpoint by two intruders, tied up, and locked in the guard room. The suspects then broke into the staffroom, three offices, and the strong room. Three laptops and 28 tablets were stolen. 

‘Substantial amount of IT equipment’

A case of theft was opened at Lomanyaneng Police Station. Meanwhile, police have since recovered three laptops and 12 tablets.

In Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, Reveilo Secondary School also fell victim to a burglary on Tuesday (9/9), during the early morning hours. The thieves made off with a substantial amount of IT equipment: laptop movable cubit,
32 Acer laptops, 32 Acer chargers, three HP laptops, one Lenovo laptop, and two external hard drives.

A case of burglary has been opened at the local police station. “I would also like to commend the police for their swift action in arresting some of the suspects in connection with the incidents at the two affected schools. I hope the judicial process will take its course, and those found guilty will receive appropriate sentences.”

Criminal acts against schools will not be tolerated, and all efforts will be directed toward creating a secure environment for learners and educators alike. The department is planning increased investment in school security and community policing partnerships to curb further incidents.

Anyone with information about school-related crimes is urged to report it to their nearest police station or call Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg