Learners urged to stop bullying in schools

National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola has urged parents, guardians, community leaders and the youth to work with the police to instil discipline, respect and accountability among youngsters and combat the scourge of bullying.

The general also called on police officers to act swiftly to investigate such incidents when they are reported to ensure perpetrators are brought to book.

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Masemola said learners, bystanders and those with knowledge of such incidents must report such crimes immediately and not wait until videos go viral.

This call follows an incident where seven girls between the ages of 13 and 15 were among 16 001 suspects arrested for various crimes across the country this week.

The seven were traced by police and arrested following their participation in an alleged act of bullying where a 14-year-old girl was the victim.

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General Masemola warns young people that bullying is criminal conduct and is punishable by law.

“Bullying has dire repercussions. Once you get involved in acts of bullying, you can be charged with assault GBH (grievous bodily harm), common assault, crimen injuria, and a host of other crimes,” he said.

“Being formally charged means you will have a criminal record to your name, which has negative implications on your future. The police will not hesitate to act against those who involve themselves in such acts.

“Those who get involved in such acts will be traced and made to answer before a court of law for crimes committed. Young people must refrain from involvement in such acts.

“We have heard in some instances that some children took their lives as a result of bullying. Bystanders are also warned not to entertain or encourage such acts as they may become accomplices to these crimes,” warned the general.

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