Pelican Park High School has issued a formal media statement after a video depicting a violent altercation between a group of its learners began circulating widely on social media, reports Cape {town} Etc.
While the exact circumstances surrounding the altercation remain unclear, the video shows what appears to be multiple physical altercations breaking out simultaneously between several groups of students.
Crowds of student bystanders can also be seen gathering as the altercations escalate. At one point, a student can be seen bringing what looks like a three-legged stool into the crowd to use as a weapon.
Commenting on the video, community Facebook group WAAR Brandit INNI KAAP called for urgent action.
Violence at Pelican Park High must stop,’ the caption read. ‘Learners are being assaulted, cases go nowhere, and those involved return without consequence.’
In its statement, the school confirmed it is aware of the footage, saying that the matter has already been addressed internally, but provided no further details regarding the altercation.
‘The school is aware of a video currently circulating on social media depicting an incident involving learners engaged in a physical altercation,’ said Pelican Park High School (PPHS).
‘The matter has been addressed in accordance with the school’s Code of Conduct, and all appropriate disciplinary procedures have been followed.’
The school also expressed serious concern about the continued sharing of the video online, warning of the irresponsibility and unlawfulness of doing so.
‘We wish to place on record that the sharing and distribution of this video is both irresponsible and unlawful,’ the statement read.
The school cited the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), noting that children’s personal information – including identifiable images and videos – is classified as highly sensitive and afforded special protection.
‘The unauthorised processing or distribution of such content, particularly on public platforms, is prohibited without a lawful basis or consent,’ PPHS continued.
The statement also referenced the Film and Publications Act, which makes it an offence to distribute content depicting violence involving minors, adding that those found guilty may face penalties, including fines and/or imprisonment of up to two years.
Additionally, the school highlighted Section 154(3) of the Criminal Procedure Act, which prohibits the publication of information that may reveal the identity of a child involved in criminal proceedings, whether as a victim or witness.
‘We therefore strongly caution all members of the public, parents and learners to refrain from sharing, forwarding or engaging with this content in any manner. Those who continue to do so place themselves at legal risk and may be subject to investigation and prosecution.’
Pelican Park High School concluded by reaffirming its commitment to ‘safeguarding the dignity, rights and well-being of all learners.’
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Picture: WAAR Brandit INNI KAAP / Facebook
