Milnerton High School bullying video goes viral as police launch assault investigation
A still from the viral video that has prompted police investigation and public outcry over bullying at Milnerton High School.
Image: Screengrab/Facebook
A video depicting the assault of a Grade 10 student at Milnerton High School has gone viral, prompting national outrage and renewed calls for action against bullying in schools.
The incident, which occurred on October 16 shortly after school hours, shows the 16-year-old being physically and verbally attacked by a group of boys, while other students observe without intervening.
The incident was brought to public attention by a member of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, who posted the video on Facebook along with a statement from the victim’s mother.
In the statement, she accuses Milnerton High School of failing to intervene or protect her son despite repeated reports of bullying.
“My son, a Grade 10 student at Milnerton High School, has been subjected to bullying, physical assault, harassment, and emotional abuse by a group of boys, including some members of the school’s Rugby First Team,” the mother said.
“These 18-year-olds, who should embody strength, discipline, and leadership, have instead chosen to intimidate and harm others. I’m speaking out for my son, and for every student who has been silenced, dismissed, or ignored. To Milnerton High School in Cape Town: it is your duty to protect your students.”
Public outrage continues to grow, with many South Africans condemning the behaviour captured in the video and demanding urgent action. Commenting on the video, concerned citizen Trudy Van Noie urged the victim’s family not to back down in their pursuit of justice.
“Parent, please don’t allow this matter to be swept under the rug. Make a stand, not just for your son, but for every student who has suffered under the cruel weight of bullying in schools.
Bullying is not a rite of passage. It’s a violation of dignity. And silence in the face of that is complicity,” she said
Police have confirmed that a criminal case has been opened with no arrests.
“Milnerton police are investigating an assault to cause grievous bodily harm case involving a 16-year-old learner at a secondary school in Milnerton," police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said.
Kwankwa said the UDM would continue to push for accountability.
“The UDM is doing its best to get to the bottom of this,” he said.
Western Cape Education Department spokesperson, Bronagh Hammond confirmed that the matter was under investigation and that counselling and support was provided to affected learners.
"The school has reported that it was made aware of the video on October 17, and initiated an investigation immediately. The matter was also immediately reported to the WCED and the parents of the identified learners notified.
“This is an ongoing process with the school following all the necessary protocols and procedures as reported to the WCED.
“We urge the public not to distribute the video further as it contains minors and is being distributed without their consent. There are victims involved and we need to protect their rights.”
Civil organisation and crime group, Fight Against Crime SA FACSA said it would be extending its support: “This matter cannot be ignored or brushed aside. The protection and dignity of our children come first always.”