State not opposing bail in Milnerton High School bullying case
Eight Milnerton High learners have appeared in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court including two minors where the state is opposing bail relating to the violent bullying incident.
The six adult accused, all 18 years old, face eight counts of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm.
The two minors and the complainants may not be named.
Relatives of the accused filled the courtroom but declined to speak to the media as proceedings began.
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Eric Ntabazalilia confirmed that the matter would continue after thee lunchtime adjournment and that the state was not opposing bail as the group had fixed addresses and did not have a criminal profile.
“There are eight complainants,” confirmed. The state isn’t opposing bail as they all have fixed addresses and don’t have pending cases.
“However, the case has not been finalised as the magistrate is unhappy with the accused going back to the same school as the complainants.
“While the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the accused have been suspended from school, that suspension is due to end on Thursday.
“We are consulting with the school now to find out whether there is an alternative way to accommodate them in terms of writing their exams.”
The case has drawn public concern over bullying and school violence, as parents and pupils await the court’s decision on whether the accused will be allowed to return to class.
On Wednesday protest action in support of the 16-year-old victim who is in Grade 10 saw police using teargas and stun grenades as tensions mounted outside of the school.
The learners have since been placed on precautionary suspension.