Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has condemned the rape of eight boys from a Diepkloof primary school in Soweto, calling the incident an ‘unspeakable act’.

Soweto Urban reports that the department has dispatched immediate psychosocial support to the victims and their families, while the Teddy Bear Clinic has also been asked to assist.

A Grade Seven learner accused of orchestrating the incident has been suspended, with a disciplinary hearing scheduled for September 17.

The man accused of raping the boys has been arrested, and investigations into the case are continuing.

According to preliminary reports, a shopkeeper alleged that the Grade Seven learner stole a bottle of cold drink from his store and drugged the drink before giving it to eight boys to consume.

The victims told authorities they were then taken to a man, who allegedly raped them at gunpoint.

The incident reportedly occurred on September 1 and was first brought to the school’s attention on Monday, by one of the victim’s parents.

“Such an unspeakable act should never happen to any learner. We sympathise dearly with the affected learners and families, assuring them of our full support during this time.

“This incident is a reminder of the importance of our collective duty to ensure the safety of children in and outside of school.

“We once again call on parents to play an active role in the lives of their children, to instil values of respect and integrity that will form the foundation of the education we have provided them with,” Chiloane said.

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