The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) said that 34 schools were burgled or vandalised over the December 2021/January 2022 school holidays.
Education MEC, Debbie Schäfer says 41 incidents
of burglary and vandalism were reported over the festive period. The majority
of the incidents were minor in nature, with just two major incidents being
reported. 38 minor incidents were reported, as well as one with negligible
damage.
‘’This is a significant decrease in comparison
to the 59 incidents reported during the December 2020/January 2021 holidays
(bearing in mind that the 2020/21 holiday was much longer), but nonetheless
remains a serious concern,’’ said Schäfer
Items stolen included IT and audio-visual
equipment, electrical cables and fixtures, fencing, water pipes and ablution
fixtures, air-conditioning units, gas tanks, stationery, kitchen equipment,
Covid-19 safety supplies, bicycles, and workshop tools.
Schäfer says there were also incidents of
vandalism, particularly the smashing of windows, as well as damage to school
buildings during burglaries.
The MEC added that the total cost of repairs
and replacing stolen property is still being calculated.
‘’The WCED provided holiday security to 477 schools over the December/January holiday, but in some instances, even security
guards and cameras did not thwart determined criminals.’’
Schäfer urged the public to report any
suspicious activity in the vicinity of schools to SAPS on 08600 10 111or the
Safe Schools hotline on 0800 45 46 47
‘’I immediately. Please do not underestimate
your ability to assist the police to interrupt, investigate and apprehend the
perpetrators of these criminal actions by being the eyes and ears on the
ground. Even the smallest piece of information can be key.’’
‘’Someone, somewhere knows the perpetrators,
and we urge them to do the right thing and report any information that could
assist in these criminals being caught and punished,’’ added Schäfer
PICTURE: iStock
Done By: Mitchum George
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