It’s doing everything in its power to prevent school-related gang violence from hindering education at schools. Incidents involving dangerous weapons and gang-related activity have become a growing concern.

Department spokesperson Howard Ndaba warned gangsterism in schools is heading toward becoming a constitutional issue, as it threatens learners’ right to a safe learning environment.

In one case, a bullet was discovered in a learner’s school bag, highlighting the seriousness of the problem. Ndaba said, “As a result, we then develop a strategy to deal with this. One of the pillars of the strategy is to ensure that we are visible.

“There is police visibility, linking schools with police stations and working together with police to ensure prevention. Before any incident happens, we want to prevent it by making sure that police are visible in and around our schools.”

The department is also working with stakeholders involved in initiation schools, as some learners return from initiation schools displaying troubling behaviour patterns. Its efforts are being supported by several law enforcement initiatives aimed at improving school safety across the province.

In May, a large-scale school search and safety awareness operation was conducted at Marematlou Secondary School in Meloding as part of the ongoing safer schools programme. The operation involved social crime prevention units from several police stations as well as members of the community policing forum.

Some 704 learners from Grades 10 to 12 were searched, and prohibited items were confiscated. Learners also received awareness talks on bullying, gangsterism, possession of dangerous weapons, assault, substance abuse, and gender-based violence.

The operation formed part of broader plans to continue school safety interventions, strengthen partnerships with parents and school management, and intensify awareness campaigns on substance abuse, domestic violence and gender-based violence, said police. 

In March, members of the police’s Anti-Gang Unit carried out a surprise search-and-seizure operation at the Dr Böhmer School of Skills in Bloemfontein.

Knives, balaclavas, dagga, cigarettes, electronic vapes and copper wire were confiscated from learners. Photo supplied

The intelligence-driven raid resulted in the seizure of various prohibited items, including knives, balaclavas, dagga, cigarettes, electronic vapes and copper wire. Eighteen classrooms were searched during the operation.

Learners found in possession of the items were handed over to school management for disciplinary processes and intervention.

“Police remain committed to the Safe Schools Protocol initiative,” said Free State police spokesperson Sgt. Mahlomola Kareli. “We warn learners that schools are not a haven for criminal activity, and we will continue to conduct unannounced raids at schools to root out drugs and weapons.

“We also urge parents to play an active role in monitoring their children’s belongings and behaviour.”

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.