Impromptu school search in eMzinoni yields 140 cellphones, dagga
Officials from the Bethal Correctional Services and the eMzinoni SAPS did an unannounced search and seizure at schools in eMzinoni on March 11.
Emergency Support Team (EST) officials from the Bethal Department of Correctional Services joined members of the eMzinoni SAPS, Crime Prevention Wardens and Department of Community Safety and Security and Liaison (DCSSL) officials in an unannounced search and seize at local schools on March 11.
The team of more than 30 used the joint operation to confiscate illegal items on schools’ premises. The officials went to Ikhethelo High School and searched six classes of about 60 learners each, confiscating a sachet of dagga, 20 cigarettes and over 15 hats.
They then went to AD Nkosi High School, searched seven classes and over 450 learners, and seized a knife, 11 sachets of dagga, two cellphones, four vapes and a packet of Rizla rolling papers.
At eMzinoni High School, the team searched 1 000 learners in 12 classes, confiscating 13 sachets and a box of dagga, 140 cellphones and 70 hats. Officials found 13 of the confiscated cellphones hidden in the ceiling.
“The operation yielded results because the officials received a tip-off when on the beat. It led to a dagga seller’s house in Ext 11. The team searched and found a lunch box containing 12 sachets of dagga and a packet of Rizla,” said Siphiwe Mahlangu, the spokesperson for the Bethal Correctional Services.
Mahlangu said officials gave school authorities the learners’ confiscated cellphones and hats for further handling, and the knives, dagga, vapes and cigarettes went to the police station for destruction. eMzinoni High School principal Zanele Mahlangu appreciated the contribution of the schools’ departments.
“I am honoured and feel safe in the presence of the police. This random search and seizure shows that the police prevent crime before it happens.
“Our learners tend to carry dangerous weapons, substances and cellphones, which is against school policy and the code of conduct. I am excited to see the police on this school premises,” Mahlangu said.
The joint operation was consequential to stakeholder relations engagement at the beginning of the year. The officials will do more random operations to improve service delivery by addressing challenges threatening the safety of the Bethal and eMzinoni communities.
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