Milnerton Students Suspended After Video Shows Them Beating Classmate with Belts and Sticks
Milnerton High School in Cape Town has suspended eight pupils after a disturbing video showing a brutal assault on a 16-year-old learner went viral, sparking national outrage.
The footage, widely circulated on social media, shows the Grade 10 pupil being beaten with belts, a hosepipe, and a large stick while others watch. Reports suggest that two other learners were also attacked during the same incident.
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WCED Confirms Suspensions and Disciplinary Hearings
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that the eight pupils implicated in the assault have been issued precautionary suspensions. WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said the school governing body acted swiftly, stressing that the matter is being handled with “the seriousness it deserves.” Formal disciplinary hearings are currently underway to determine the appropriate sanctions for those involved.
Police Launch Investigation
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The incident reportedly took place around 2:40 p.m. on 16 October. While no arrests have been made so far, investigations are ongoing. Milnerton High Principal Gert van Tonder assured parents that the school is cooperating fully with authorities and following proper disciplinary protocols.
Legal Expert Warns Against Circulating Violent Footage
Family law expert Bertus Preller cautioned that individuals who filmed or shared the video without reporting the assault could face legal consequences.
“Failing to prevent or report an offense may amount to complicity,” he warned, adding that the public should refrain from spreading the “harmful content.”
The WCED echoed this plea, urging citizens to respect the victim’s dignity and allow due process to take its course.