Safety measures enforced for pupils in King Cetshwayo

Police are enforcing a zero-tolerance approach to dangerous weapons and illicit substances on school premises.

King Cetshwayo District SAPS Siyanda Shangase said this ongoing mission is to keep schools safe, preventing criminal elements that threaten the development of young people.

Building on the success of previous search-and-seizure operations, the district command has increased the frequency of unannounced inspections at high-risk schools.

The focus remains on intercepting knives, firearms and drugs, including whoonga and dagga, before they reach the classrooms.

Shangase said these measures are critical in preventing violence, theft and school burglaries.

Beyond physical security, SAPS continues to prioritise the protection of pupils from social challenges such as teenage pregnancy and statutory abuse.

Specialised units remain mandated to investigate and prosecute cases involving the exploitation of schoolgirls by older men.

SAPS is working in partnership with the departments of health and social development to ensure statutory rape is treated with the seriousness it deserves.

These efforts are seen as essential in reducing school dropout rates and breaking socioeconomic cycles that place female learners at risk.

Police are also addressing ongoing concerns around bullying and cyberbullying, recognising their link to psychological harm, including anxiety and self-harm.

CPFs continue to work with school governing bodies to promote mutual respect, while parents are urged to monitor their children’s online activity.

Acting district commissioner Brigadier Mandlakayise Mhlongo has called on traditional leaders, religious institutions and the business community to continue supporting these efforts, stressing that violence in schools is unacceptable, and that all available resources will be used to ensure a safe and productive academic year.

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