“A Grade 11 pupil was found in possession of dagga in his school bag, inside a classroom at Homevale High School yesterday.”
FOUR pupils from Homevale High School had to seek medical treatment for gas inhalation after they were apparently sprayed with pepper spray. This happened after a Grade 11 pupil apparently attempted to stab a teacher with a knife.
It was reported that one pupil’s vision was affected by the pepper spray, while a parent stated that his child was booked off for the rest of the school day after visiting the doctor.
He indicated that his child was an innocent bystander, who was sprayed with pepper spray that was dispensed by a member of the Homevale Community Forum when the fight erupted.
“I intend laying charges at the police station.”
Spokesperson for the Department of Education, Lehuma Ntuane, said a pupil was arrested by the police when he tried to reach for a knife in his pocket.
“A Grade 11 pupil was found in possession of dagga in his school bag, inside a classroom at Homevale High School yesterday.”
He said police officers were present at the school when the pupil tried to run away.
“The pupil was arrested by the police when he tried to reach for a knife in his pocket in an attempt to stab one of the teachers.
“School premises are weapon-free zones and therefore no weapons are allowed.
“The police are busy with the investigation and a case of possession of drugs has since been opened.”
Ntuane stated that the school would initiate disciplinary processes against pupils who had transgressed the regulations.
He added that the four pupils, who were not involved in the fight, were treated for teargas inhalation.
“They returned to school and continued with their classes. Schooling was not disrupted and continued as normal.”
Ntuane explained that the Homevale Community Forum assisted in restoring order at the school.
“The Homevale Community Forum operates outside the school premises and also assists the school and community with security.
“We commend the work and assistance of the Homevale Community Forum for keeping an eye on any drug peddling close to the school premises.”
Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Dimakatso Mooi, indicated that the Roodepan police were investigating a case of common assault after a pupil was allegedly sprayed with pepper spray.
“The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.”
