Police have intensified school safety operations across Gauteng, with 17 schools searched to remove drugs, weapons and other prohibited items from schools.
The latest searches, conducted on August 26, included Baleseng Junior, Tiyelelani, Ngaka Maseko, Holy Trinity and FR Smangaliso Mkhathwa secondary schools.
The operations uncovered nyaope, marijuana and medication abortion pills. A substantial quantity of marijuana was reportedly found in a schoolgirl’s possession, raising concerns that the drugs may have been intended for distribution.
In another incident, a learner found carrying small packets of cannabis reportedly admitted that he had been recruited by a local drug dealer to sell the substance.
Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Lebogang Maile said the findings were deeply concerning and warned against the exploitation of learners by criminals.
“Our children must never be used as instruments for criminal activity. Those who target learners and use them to distribute drugs are attacking the future of our communities,” said Maile.
The MEC said the operations form part of the broader ‘It Takes a Village to Raise a Child’ programme, which promotes shared responsibility among schools, parents, communities, law enforcement and government.
Rhulani Ngobeni, public relations officer of Soshanguve CPF, said: “School safety awareness campaigns are critical because they reach learners at an early stage, before they are exposed to negative influences.”
He stressed that protecting children requires co-operation between SAPS, government departments, social organisations and community structures.
The Gauteng Department of Education said the school safety operations will continue as authorities work to strengthen discipline and keep drugs, dangerous weapons and other prohibited items out of schools.
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