In an effort to curb the ongoing violence in schools in KwaZulu-Natal, the Department of Basic Education, in conjunction with SAPS made unannounced visits to some problematic schools in the area.

The raid aligned with the launch of a ‘Safe Schools Implementation Protocol’ between the South African Police Service and the Department of Basic Education to address crime in schools.

Inanda has consistently recorded the highest number of cases of murder, rape, armed robbery, and car hijackings in the province. Community policing forums say the violence in the area has spilled over into schools, including Ikusasalethu Secondary School, Newtown Combined School and Inanda Comprehensive School. Learners at these schools say there have been divisions along gang lines, leading to turf wars.

The Basic Education department says the search and seizure raids form part of a multidisciplinary approach to make schools safer, eradicating the proliferation of drugs and to curb violence. Learners, their bags, and school premises were searched with dagga and cigarettes seized.

“It is an initiative that was discussed in parliament to address the ongoing issues in schools deemed hotspots for violence, gangsterism and crime,” says Elijah Mhlanga, Department of Basic Education Spokesperson.

Meanwhile, the Department of Basic Education says it has also addressed the long-standing issues related to the ‘norms and standards’ at some schools in the province. But reiterated that schools have the responsibility to budget accordingly and must factor in security on the premises.

The Community Policing Forum says the responsibility to fight crime at schools cannot be left to the department alone.

“The reason the violence has been ongoing is because schools work in silos. They need to work with SAPS and ensure that learners who are involved in violence and crime are arrested. Inanda has become a breeding ground for young criminals. Many gangs like the west end recruit school learners because of drugs and money. The SAPS needs to clamp down on the illicit sale of drugs and gangs operating and then they will see change in the communities, but it takes a united approach involving parents, leaders, SGB and community,” says Mbongeni Phewa, Inanda CPF.

Four provinces have been identified as hotspots for crime namely KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape. This campaign is aimed at increasing police visibility and linking schools to local police stations.

Video: Police conduct raid to ensure learner safety in KZN