Armed suspects terrorise two schools, Gauteng MEC condemns violence

Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has condemned two separate gun-related incidents at schools in Alexandra and Johannesburg, describing them as attacks on learners’ safety and right to education. Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has condemned two violent criminal incidents at and near public schools in the province, warning that attacks on schools threaten learners’ safety and their constitutional right to education. The incidents, which occurred at Iphutheng Primary School in Alexandra and outside Waverley Girls’ High School in Johannesburg, left learners and educators traumatised and prompted an urgent response from law enforcement and education authorities.

According to the Gauteng Department of Education, armed suspects allegedly entered Iphutheng Primary School during a robbery, with preliminary reports indicating that several warning shots were fired on the school premises. The incident caused panic among learners and staff, who reportedly fled for safety. One learner was taken to hospital, although the circumstances surrounding the hospitalisation remain under investigation.

In a separate incident, an alleged hijacking took place outside Waverley Girls’ High School. Armed suspects reportedly fired shots into the air before fleeing the scene, leaving learners traumatised. The department is investigating reports that learners remained outside the school while law enforcement officials responded to the situation.

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“We condemn these senseless acts of criminality in the strongest possible terms. Schools are sacred spaces dedicated to teaching and learning and must never become theatres of violence, fear or intimidation,” said Maile. “Criminals who threaten the safety of our children, educators and school communities have no place in our society and must face the full might of the law.” The MEC has instructed departmental officials to work closely with the affected schools, district offices, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies to minimise disruptions to teaching and learning.

The department has also deployed psychosocial support teams and trauma counsellors to assist learners, educators and staff affected by the incidents. Maile said ensuring school safety requires a collective effort from government, communities and law enforcement agencies.

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