Police are still seeking assistance from the public in tracing Adam Edwards, wanted for a sexual offences case which was registered at Bothasig SAPS in August last year.

Last week, the Provincial Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit called on the public’s help in seeking Edwards after a warrant of arrest was issued by the court.

On Sunday, SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg, said there were no new developments and that the investigation remains ongoing.

Edwards was previously employed as a teacher at Riverside College in Burgundy Estate.

The Western Cape Education Department was contacted for comment, but said, “We do not provide comment on matters pertaining to private schools such as this as we have no jurisdiction over the management of such issues”.

The school’s principal, Carlien Ellis, in a statement to parents and guardians on Friday, addressed the matter in “the spirit of transparency and care for our school community”.

“It has come to our attention that a former member of staff at Riverside College is alleged to have been involved in a non-contact criminal offence. Please be assured that this individual is no longer employed at the school.

“From our own internal investigation, we can confirm that this matter does not involve a contact crime. The allegations relate to the alleged possession of intimate personal imagery,” Ellis said.

She said that the college has been working with leading specialists to strengthen their policies on cell phone use and cybersafety, and that “recent events have highlighted just how important this is”.

“Riverside College remains committed to building one of the safest digital environments for children. While we are a cellphone-free school, online safety also begins at home. We encourage parents to maintain oversight of their children’s online activity and to partner with us in reinforcing safe and respectful digital behaviour.

“As a school, we continue to cooperate fully with the South African Police Service and provide any assistance required to support their investigation. We also kindly request that parents and learners refrain from speculation or the spreading of unverified information,” Eliis said.

“Doing so helps protect all involved and ensures that the matter can be dealt with fairly and appropriately by the authorities. The safety and well-being of our learners remain our highest priority.

“We are committed to keeping our school environment secure and to supporting our learners, staff, and families during this time,” she said.

In January, the school posted a picture of Edwards on social media to wish him a happy birthday.

“Wishing you a wonderful day filled with happiness and relaxation! Thank you for all your hard work, dedication, and the positive impact you’ve had on all of us.

“May this year bring you even more success, joy, and well-deserved moments of celebration. Enjoy your special day,” the school’s message reads.

Ellis has offered support services for parents or children who may feel unsettled by this news.

SAPS has urged anyone with any information that can assist with the investigation or who knows the whereabouts of Edwards to contact the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Nomabandla Jokazi, on 082 827 2048 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

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