DON’T PANIC: Our schools are not being threatened

Parents panicked on Wednesday morning, with some making their way to schools to fetch their children, following widespread messages on social media of schools being attacked and burnt in some cases.

These messages were confirmed false and unfounded by authorities.

Capt Jethro Mtshali, spokesperson for Kempton Park SAPS, confirmed they were made aware of the messages and said schools were safe.

Sgt Johanna Madiga, Norkem Park SAPS spokesperson, also told Express parents had nothing to worry about.

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“We just wish people would stop circulating unconfirmed and fake news as it causes a lot of panic in the community,” said Madiga.

“We are going around to schools to inform them that they shouldn’t panic. In addition, we are patrolling around schools to ensure schools are safe and to also put learners and staff at ease.”

According to Madiga, cluster commander of Ekurhuleni North, Gen Vincent Leshabane, also confirmed with them that the school threats were false.

Sec Pros’ Gerald Groenewald said they were assisting with patrols and that the schools were indeed safe.

“Whatsapp messages are doing the rounds with regards to schools burning in Katlehong, Tembisa and Rabie Ridge but it is important for residents to note that schools are not under threat in any way at all,” said Groenewald.

“We have been to various schools to check if they are burning but these are unfounded messages and we ask for community members not to forward these messages should they receive them, because they are causing chaos and panic.

“Please remain calm. There is allegedly also a message that learners at Laerskool Impala are being sent home, this is false and please don’t distribute these messages.”

Steve Mabona, spokesperson for Gauteng Education Department, also confirmed with Express no school was attacked.