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The pupils, aged between 13 and 14 have been suspended from their schools and each face a charge of common assault.
Seven Johannesburg high school learners were caught on video assaulting a fellow learner. Picture: iStock
Seven high school pupils, who are accused of assaulting another pupil, appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
The girls, aged between 13 and 14, were arrested after a video showing a group of girls attacking another 14-year-old Bedfordview High School pupil went viral on social media.
They appeared in court for a Preliminary Inquiry (PLI) or hearing before a child justice court as dictated by the Child Justice Act and have been released into the custody of their parents.
The Act states that a PLI should be held within 48 hours of the arrest of a minor child to determine, amongst others, their personal circumstances and their backgrounds, as well as any factors that may have led to the minor committing the alleged offence.
Case postponed
The pupils from Bedfordview High School, Kensington High School, Queens High School, and Phoenix College each face a charge of common assault after the victim reported them to her school and opened a case on 12 May.
“Their case was postponed to 21 May 2025 for the finalisation of the PLI where two of the minors have undergone the necessary assessment by probation officers,” National Prosecution Authority (NPA) Gauteng spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said in a statement.
According to the NPA, the incident happened in Yeoville, Johannesburg, on 10 May following an altercation.
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NPA and GDE condemn learners‘ actions
“The NPA condemns the alleged attack and encourages the youth to find amicable ways to resolve conflict,” Mjonondwane said.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has also condemned the actions of the seven pupils and said they were swiftly suspended from their respective schools.
“The GDE strongly condemns such acts of violence among learners. Violent behaviour among learners, whether within school grounds or beyond, is unacceptable and will carry serious consequences that may affect learners’ education and long-term prospects,” the department said in a statement on Monday.
“We reaffirm that fostering safe, respectful, and supportive learning environments is a top priority for the department.”
Schools investigate
The department said the schools have begun internal investigations into the misconduct of the pupils involved, in line with their codes of conduct and applicable disciplinary procedures.
All affected pupils, including the victim, will receive psycho-social support provided by the GDE.
‘Building a non-violent society’
“We also call on parents and guardians to play an active role in shaping the values and conduct of their children. Building a non-violent society starts at home,” the department said.
“Parents must work hand in hand with schools and the department to instil discipline, empathy, and accountability in our learners. Together, we can cultivate a society of respect towards education institutions, which will ensure that Gauteng schools remain safe spaces for quality learning and teaching.”
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The GDE also urged pupils to report bullying incidents and any form of violence to their teachers, school leadership, parents or guardians, or the nearest GDE district office.
Silence only protects the aggressor, and that can lead to more misconduct, the department said.
*For additional support, pupils can freely contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) at 0800 567 567 or reach out to Childline South Africa on 116. Both are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Incidents of bullying or violence can also be reported directly to the GDE via WhatsApp on 060 891 0361 or through the GDE Contact Centre on 0800 000 789.
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