Police have confiscated dangerous weapons and weed amongst other things at a North West school.

On Wednesday (17/7), the North West Department of Education and the police conducted a random search and seizure operation at Alabama Secondary School in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District. The operation led to the confiscation of knives, alcohol, firelighters, vapes, weed, and other prohibited items found in the possession of learners.

                            Items found during search and seizure operation at North West School, photo: Supplied

Departmental spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane, stated that the operation was initiated as part of the department's efforts to curb crime and gangsterism in the province. He highlighted an incident in April last year when a school in Vryburg was closed for two days due to fears of violence, as some learners who were part of gangs, brought dangerous weapons to school and bullied others.

Molokwane said the department has identified Alabama Secondary School as one of the hotspots for crime and gangsterism. He emphasised that the search and seizure operation is crucial to creating a safer and more conducive learning environment for students. The Department of Social Development has been called upon to provide psychological support and counselling services to address the psychosocial impact and educate pupils on the dangers of illegal substances, drugs, and dangerous weapons.

Meanwhile, North West Education MEC Viola Motsumi stressed the importance of collaboration in addressing safety concerns at schools and applauded the school governing body (SGB), police, educators, the school principal, sister departments, and members of her department for their efforts.

‘Together, we can create a secure and nurturing environment where learners can thrive’

“The safety of our learners is paramount. We applaud our sister Departments—Social Development and SAPS – for their unwavering commitment to our schools and we extend our gratitude to the teachers, principal, and SGB of Alabama Secondary School for their proactive stance. Functional parental involvement and the support of stakeholders such as the Department of Social Development are crucial in our ongoing fight against crime and substance abuse in schools. Together, we can create a secure and nurturing environment where our learners can thrive,” she said.

In June last year, a learner was stabbed to death after two groups gathered at a bus rank, leading to a fight and the eventual stabbing of the victim.

Molokwane reaffirmed the department’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.

“Through continued collaboration with law enforcement and social services, the Department aims to build a future free from the influence of crime and substance abuse in our schools,” added Molokwane.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg