Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has praised the swift arrest of five learners and a parent at Tsakane Secondary School.  This after a learner, previously suspended for assault, allegedly forced his way back into the school, defying disciplinary orders.

The Grade 12 preliminary exams ended up being disrupted yesterday. The parent is alleged to have played an active role in encouraging the chaos.

The arrests also come after weeks of escalating violence and intimidation, as well as arson in the school’s toilets.

The department’s spokesperson Steve Mabona says schools must remain safe spaces for learning.

“The threats and intimidations will not be tolerated in our schools. MEC did indicate that he remains resolute and committed that the school environment will always be safe at all time. Our psychosocial support and wellness employees will make sure that they support our employees and learners at that school.”

MEC CHILOANE COMMENDS SAPS FOR THE ARREST OF 5 DISRUPTIVE LEARNERS AND A PARENT AT TSAKANE SECONDARY SCHOOL

Gauteng MEC for Education, @matomekopano, commends the @SAPoliceService for arresting five learners and a parent today who have been disrupting teaching and learning at… pic.twitter.com/Z5nCaAWThp

— Gauteng Department of Education (@EducationGP1) August 21, 2025