UNITASPARK – An attempted kidnapping incident at Laerskool Unitaspark has sent shockwaves and panic to pupils, teachers, parents, and the entire community.
This comes after a driver in a black Mazda motor vehicle, with the registration number ending in 190GP, approached learners outside the school premises on June 9.
According to information at Ster’s disposal, the driver allegedly dropped off two men further down the road before approaching the learners.
It is further said that the driver then informed the learners that their transport driver had instructed him to fetch them.
The transport driver later confirmed to a parent that he never gave any such instruction.
In a statement issued by the school, it is said that older learners remained calm, vigilant, and refused to get into the vehicle.
“They also protected and safeguarded the younger learners who were present at the time. The driver and the other two individuals then attempted to force some of the learners into the vehicle. Thankfully, the learners fought back and managed to get away safely. We are extremely grateful that no learner was physically harmed, but this incident must serve as a very serious warning to all of us,” read the statement.
The school has urged parents and guardians to pick up their children on time after school, warning that children should never be left waiting for long periods.
They added that parents must communicate clearly with transport drivers to ensure safe, reliable arrangements are in place.
Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Onwabile Lubhelwana confirmed the incident.
“The deparment is aware and saddened to learn about the attempted abduction of learners outside school. We strongly condemn any acts of misconduct by anyone, more so acts that seek to undermine the dignity of our learning institutions.”
“The department remains committed to ensuring that schools are physically and emotionally safe for learners and conducive for effective teaching and learning. The safety and well-being of our learners and educators remain our highest priority,” Lubhelwana said.
