Various weapons and illegal substances were discovered at a local school during an unannounced search conducted by the SAPS, together with the Public Order Policing (POP) unit, the SAPS Youth Crime Prevention Desk and School Governing Body (SGB) representatives. The operation formed part of a safety initiative known as the School Searching Programme.

The surprise inspection was carried out at Drakensberg Secondary School.

During the operation, authorities confiscated several items, including dagga, cigarettes, knives and other weapons found in possession of learners.

Youth Desk chairperson explains the search

SAPS Youth Crime Prevention Desk chairperson Njabulo Mdakane explained that the school had been identified by the province as a problematic institution within the uThukela District.

“This school was identified by the province as problematic in uThukela. That is how our visit came about. During the search, we found cigarettes, and drugs such as dagga and mandrax,” said Mdakane.

Learners flee school premises 

He added that some learners fled the school premises when the operation began, while others who are believed to be wanted individuals did not attend school on the day of the search.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Basheer Khan confirmed the unannounced search and said that various contraband items were seized.

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