Seven Teenagers Charged with Assault After Viral School Attack Sparks Public Outrage

Seven teenagers, aged between 13 and 14, appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court for a Preliminary Inquiry (PLI) after being charged with assaulting a fellow 14-year-old pupil. The incident, which took place on May 10, 2025, was captured on video and quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage across the country.

Under the Child Justice Act, the PLI is designed to take place within 48 hours of the arrest to review the personal circumstances of the minors involved and explore any factors that may have led to the alleged offence. The inquiry was postponed to May 21, 2025, to allow probation officers to assess two of the accused minors.

The assault allegedly involved a group of girls from Bedfordview High School, Queens High School, Kensington High School, and Phoenix College. The viral video shows four girls confronting the victim, who is seen being slapped while sitting on a bed, shielding her face with her hands.

Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), condemned the attack:

“The NPA strongly condemns this violent act and urges young people to find peaceful ways to resolve conflicts.”

Following the assault, the victim reported the incident to her school and filed a police case on May 18, 2025. Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that charges of common assault were opened and the suspects apprehended.

Gauteng’s MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, also spoke out against the violence:

“Violent behaviour among learners is unacceptable and will have serious consequences. Our department is committed to ensuring safe and respectful learning environments.”

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) announced internal investigations at the schools involved and pledged psycho-social support for all learners affected by the incident, including the victim.

Steve Mabona, GDE spokesperson, emphasized the role of parents and guardians in nurturing non-violent values:

“Building a non-violent society starts at home, and the department calls on families to actively shape the conduct of their children.”

This case highlights ongoing challenges with youth violence in schools and underlines the importance of collaborative efforts between schools, families, and communities to foster safe spaces for learners.

{Source: IOL}

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