Eight pupils from Milnerton High School in Cape Town have been suspended following a violent assault that was captured on video and widely shared online. The incident, which occurred last week, has caused significant public outcry across South Africa.
The graphic footage shows multiple boys repeatedly attacking a fellow student with objects including a hockey stick, a hose pipe, and a belt. Reports indicate that the victim was one of nine students allegedly subjected to the assault.
Bullying and violent incidents in South African schools are a persistent concern, with videos of such events frequently surfacing on social media. This particular incident is noted as one of the most distressing to have emerged in recent times.
In response to the incident, various organizations and political parties have voiced their condemnation. Amnesty International South Africa described the video as “deeply disturbing” and urged for prompt disciplinary action, emphasizing that no child should face such brutality within a safe educational environment.
South Africa’s Ministry of Basic Education has confirmed it is collaborating with the Western Cape education department to address the matter. Both departments have appealed to the public to refrain from sharing the video and identifying the individuals involved, citing the potential for further trauma to those affected and a violation of their dignity.
The mother of the victim, speaking to a local publication, revealed that her 16-year-old son had recently completed chemotherapy after a battle with cancer, expressing her anguish that he would face such an ordeal after overcoming the illness.