On August 19, the De Deur police, together with Siyabangena Patrollers and the Community Policing Forum, carried out a School Search at Tshepong Secondary School.

The action follows a complaint from the school regarding incidents of learners engaging in physical altercations.

According to the SAPS, school searches are conducted with the primary objective of creating a safe and secure learning environment for students and staff. This involves identifying and confiscating prohibited items, such as dangerous weapons and illegal drugs, while also educating learners about safety and security.

Often, the searches form a part of broader school safety awareness campaigns and collaborative efforts with the Department of Basic Education and local communities.

During the visit, learners identified for exhibiting problematic behaviour were addressed by De Deur SAPS Social Crime Prevention Coordinator Constable Maureen Nkosi.

In her address, Nkosi educated learners on the consequences of their actions and the impact these actions may have on their futures. Nkosi further emphasised the importance of maintaining good behaviour, not only within the school environment but also within their broader communities.

Police spokesperson Constable Mampho Mahlomola states that the learners were issued a stern warning regarding their disruptive behaviour and also educated about the importance of adhering to lawful conduct.

Mahlomola states that Initiatives of this nature will continue in schools, with the primary objective of curbing criminal conduct and combating substance use and abuse in educational institutions.