By Anita Dangazele
The principal of Equleni Junior Primary School in Mdantsane, East London, was arrested along with three members of the local community policing forum for allegedly kidnapping and assaulting two young pupils.
The boys, aged six and nine, were accused of breaking into the school during the recent holiday and stealing a microwave, heater, rubbish bin, paper, and a light bulb.
Police spokesperson Captain Hazel Mqala said a case of kidnapping and assault was opened for investigation at Mdantsane SAPS.
“Preliminary investigations were conducted, and four suspects aged between 47 and 54 were arrested.
“All four suspects appeared at the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court on 12 July. The principal was released on bail, and the other three were remanded,” Mqala said.
NPA spokesperson Luxolo Tyali said the three in custody were granted bail of R500 each on Tuesday, July 16, and will appear in court on 12 August.
Children’s rights activist Petros Majola said that, according to the law, children of that age do not have criminal capacity.
“If they commit a crime, there are procedures to be followed involving social workers, so they can be called to order appropriately,” he said.
Majola also spoke about the need for community forum members to be properly trained in handling cases involving children.
Eastern Cape education department spokesperson Malibongwe Mtima said a meeting with the school governing body and parents would be held soon.
Pictured above: Illustration image.
Source: SAPS
Full Story Source: Principal assaults boys, 6 and 9, for ‘breaking into school’
