MEC concerned over surge in gang violence at Western Cape schools

12 April 2016 - 16:44 By Nashira Davids

Western Cape education MEC Debbie Schäfer has lashed out at the province's top cop for not being available to discuss the surge in gang violence at schools.On Friday a 15-year-old boy from Modderdam Secondary School in Bishop Lavis was stabbed in the chest by an alleged gangster.His family told The Times they fear for their safety and have not reported the incident to police.Schäfer is concerned about increasing gang violence at schools in areas such as Bonteheuwel‚ Modderdam and Manenberg."I was so angered by the events of Friday that I requested an urgent meeting with Western Cape Police Commissioner‚ Lieutenant General [Khombinkosi ] Jula‚ to discuss how they plan to comply with their constitutional duty to keep our learners safe‚ especially in the light of his stated commitment to address the gang problem in the Western Cape‚'' said Schäfer in a statement."I made myself available over the weekend and evenings. However‚ to date his office has advised us that they cannot secure a date for this meeting.''She established that two meetings had been held last term between Bishop Lavis police and her department's Safe Schools initiative. They had agreed to increase police presence at Modderdam Secondary School."This incident happened during the first week. I have been advised that there was absolutely no increase in police visibility‚'' said Schäfer.On Tuesday afternoon Lieutenant General Jula and his management team will address media on gang interventions in the province.TMG Digital/The Times..

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.