The Western Cape Education Department has reported that, despite increased holiday security at 486 schools, 26 incidents of burglary and vandalism occurred at 24 schools during the December holidays.
This marks a decrease from last year’s 48 incidents at 42 schools, but the department expressed disappointment over the continuous criminal activities.
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According to the Western Cape Provincial Minister of Education, David Maynier, the incidents involved theft and damage to gas cylinders, computers, cameras and long-life food items.
Essential infrastructure like electrical boxes, windows, ceilings, doors and security equipment were also damaged.
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The department condemned the acts as direct sabotage of the children’s future.
‘It is unacceptable that funding has to be diverted from educational purposes each year to replace items that have been stolen or repair infrastructure damaged for no reason, especially in a significantly stressed financial environment,’ commented Maynier.
The department urged the public to report any suspicious sales of stolen goods from schools, saying that community vigilance can significantly aid in preventing these crimes.
The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities near schools to the South African Police Service or the Safe Schools hotline at 0800 45 46 47.
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