The two Plumstead High School (PHS) learners who were photographed brandishing weapons and alcohol in school uniform have been suspended, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Also read: Plumstead High responds to viral photos of students with weapons
According to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), the matter is being investigated.
The images drew a slew of criticism after being shared on social media. In response, PHS issued a letter to parents stating that an investigation was underway.
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Millicent Merton, WCED spokesperson, told IOL the matter is being dealt with ‘in terms of its code of conduct’.
‘I can confirm that an investigation is underway. The school is 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,’ Merton added.
‘The district will provide the necessary support to the school.’
Chair of the Diep River Community Policing Forum (CPF) Fiona Schwimmbacher says police will engage with the school management this week.
‘The SAPS is aware of the incident and will be engaging with the principal today. According to the station commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Jacobs, no member of the public reported any case for pointing a firearm.’
‘No person was arrested for being illegally in possession of a firearm or dangerous weapon. The date and time of the incident were never communicated to the SAPS and, therefore, it makes it difficult to launch a probe.’
‘The SAPS will be doing extra patrols around the school, before and after school daily.’
Schwimmbacher also called on parents to monitor the behaviour of their children, 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. From this incident, we are pleading with all parents to be more vigilant in monitoring their children’s activities, both before and after school.’
PHS did not reply to Cape {town} Etc’s query at the time of publication.
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Picture: Proudly Grassy Park / Facebook