South Africa’s Gauteng province has launched a major crackdown on violence and gangsterism in schools after identifying 245 high‑risk campuses.
The first operation took place at Badirile Secondary School in Khutsong where police and education officials conducted search‑and‑seizure inspections that uncovered knives, a panga, drugs, vapes and other prohibited items.
The school has recorded 10 criminal cases since January and was the site of a fatal learner stabbing earlier this year, underscoring the severity of the problem.
Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile said restoring discipline was essential, warning that some learners were threatening teachers, engaging in gangsterism and attending school only to access meals or intimidate others.
School violence has long plagued South Africa, with recurring incidents of stabbings, gang activity and drug use prompting calls for stronger safety interventions.
Officials say more operations will follow in the coming weeks as part of efforts to remove weapons from schools and prevent further escalation.
JN/APA