Pupils suspended after bullying incident at PMB school

The video shows a pupil being assaulted by another pupil while others look on inside a classroom. The incident occurred last week and has raised serious concerns about pupil safety at the school. Hlomuka said a criminal case has been opened with the police and is currently under investigation.

He said, in line with departmental policy and pending the outcome of the investigation, the alleged perpetrators were suspended as a precautionary measure to protect pupils and allow due process to unfold. “Following the incident, Circuit Management officials, the School Governing Body, together with SAPS, visited the school to conduct investigations and provide the necessary support to affected pupils, teachers and the broader school community,” said Hlomuka. He said the department would hold an internal meeting to determine the way forward once investigations are complete.

Hlomuka reiterated that bullying, intimidation and any form of violence in schools are unacceptable and undermine pupils’ right to a safe and dignified learning environment. “Our schools must remain safe havens for learning and development. Acts of bullying have no place in our education system. We commend the swift intervention by school management, Circuit officials and SAPS, and we will ensure appropriate action is taken once the investigation has been finalised,” he said.