Police confiscate weapons and drugs in school

Estimated reading time: 6 minute(s)

In an effort to curb gangsterism and violence in schools, the North West Education department under the leadership of MEC Viola Motsumi conducted a search and seizure in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in a school in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District this past Thursday.

MEC Motsumi said that Alabama Secondary School has been identified as one of the hotspot schools for crime and gangsterism, as a result, the random search and seizure operation is a crucial step towards creating a safer and more conducive learning environment for learners.

“This proactive exercise, is part of SAPS’s Adopt-a-School initiative optimally resulted in the confiscation of numerous dangerous items, including knives, pangas, alcohol, firelighters, vapes, and weed among others.”

She also said that the fight cannot be left to the Department and the police alone, various stakeholders need to be involved as well.

“To address the psychological impact and educate learners on the dangers of illegal substances, drugs, and dangerous weapons, the Department of Education has called upon the Department of Social Development to provide necessary psychological support and counselling services. This initiative aims to guide learners towards healthier, safer lifestyle choices.”

“The safety of our learners is paramount. We applaud our sister Departments-Social Development and SAPS for their unwavering commitment to our schools, and we extend our gratitude to the teachers, principal, and SGB of Alabama Secondary School for their proactive stance. Functional parental involvement and the support of stakeholders such as the Department of Social Development are crucial in our ongoing fight against crime and substance abuse in schools,” Motsumi expresses.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the South African Police Services for their unwavering dedication to maintaining safety in our schools. I commend the teachers, principal, and School Governing Body (SGB) of Alabama Secondary School for their vigilance and commitment to our learners’ well-being.”

“This operation underscores the importance of functional parental involvement and the collaboration of various stakeholders, including the SAPS and the Department of Social Development, in safeguarding our schools. Together, we can create a secure and nurturing environment where our learners can thrive.”