Police in the north of Pretoria have turned their attention to bullying in schools after a recent suicide by a teenager, apparently after being bullied.
Sinoville police spokesperson Warrant Officer Johan van Dyk said this week suicides were on the increase.
“What is tragic is that in most cases, it is young people who take their own lives,” said Van Dyk.
“There are a number of reasons people would take their own lives,” said Van Dyk.
“Financial stress, depression and feeling ostracised from your peers or community are some of the reasons.”
Van Dyk said bullying, which was alleged in the case of the 13-year-old who recently took her life, could often lead to someone feeling “unwanted” and ostracised from a specific group of people.
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“Bullying is still a big problem in our schools,” Van Dyk said.
“Whether it is face-to-face or online bullying, children should be taught how to handle it and also report bullies to a trusted guardian, teacher or the police.”
Van Dyk, also known at schools as Chopper Cop, pays regular visits to schools to discuss issues such as bullying.
During the police’s child protection week, Van Dyk and colleagues often focus on the topic of bullying in schools.
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He said bullying often led to serious crimes such as assault.
“This is something we can’t allow in our schools.”
Van Dyk urged children to report all cases of bullying – whether physical or emotional.
“Parents should also be observant and look for signs and changes in the child’s behaviour.”
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