Durban: The mother of a former matric pupil from a northern KwaZulu-Natal school, is set to file charges with the police as she alleges that her son was severely assaulted by the school’s principal and police officers.
According to the mother, Nokuthula Mkhize, she received a call from the school principal on November 18 last year, informing her that her son had been suspended and needed to be collected from the boarding school.
However she could not travel to the school immediately due to a death in her family.
She said she was then informed by other parents that her son was among pupils who were severely assaulted by the principal and police officers.
It is alleged that the pupils were assaulted with open hands, booted feet and a firearm.
Mkhize said she would be opening a case with the police today.
She added that the trauma from this incident left her son emotionally and psychologically distressed, ultimately affecting his ability to complete his matric exams.
“My son is severely traumatised by this; even when I mention it, he does not want to talk about it. I am yet to find him some psychological help so that he may be emotionally and mentally fit to write his exams. To this day, he remains fearful of engaging with law enforcement.”
The DA in KwaZulu-Natal has called for an investigation into the incident.
Sakhile Mngadi, DA KZN spokesperson on Education, stated, "The DA is deeply disturbed by these claims and strongly condemns such horrific conduct."
He called on KZN Education MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, to ensure an immediate and independent investigation into the alarming allegations.
Mngadi further urged the MEC to take decisive action against the school principal pending the outcome of a formal investigation by the Department of Education.
Additionally, he called for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) to investigate and hold accountable the SAPS officers allegedly involved in the assault.
"The brutal treatment of learners is unacceptable. Schools must be places of learning and development, not environments of fear and abuse. The DA will not rest until those responsible are held accountable and justice is served."
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has been approached for comment.