Two Plumstead High boys photographed brandishing weapons and alcohol while in uniform have been suspended pending a disciplinary hearing, says the Western Cape Education Department.
The images appeared on the Proudly Grassy Park Facebook group last week and drew fierce public criticism
One of the boys is seen holding a gun and what appears to be a beer bottle while the other holds a knife. Both are wearing school blazers.
The Bulletin has seen a copy of a letter the school has sent to parents, saying the matter is being investigated.
In a further letter, the school notes that pupils are banned from using cellphones on the school premises with immediate effect and clothing that is not part of the uniform will be confiscated.
WCED spokesperson Millicent Merton confirmed an investigation was under way and the school was dealing with the matter in terms of its code of conduct.
“The school has met the parents of the learners concerned individually. The learners have been suspended as a precautionary measure pending a disciplinary hearing.
“The district will provide the necessary support to the school.”
Fiona Schwimmbacher, chairperson of the Diep River Community Police Forum, urged parents to be more vigilant in monitoring their children’s activities before and after school.
“We trust that the school administration and the education department will thoroughly investigate this matter and address it accordingly.
“Our students are meant to be in school to learn and develop as future leaders. This behaviour in the picture has the potential to lead these young individuals down the wrong path. Children should be provided with a safe and nurturing environment to grow and thrive. Any actions that undermine this goal must be met with swift and appropriate action.”
