Gauteng education authorities are investigating reports of a suspected substance known among learners as “oil spice” after it was discovered at several schools.
According to The South African, the Gauteng Education Department is working with police to determine what the substance contains, where it comes from and how it is reaching learners.
The department has not yet confirmed whether “oil spice” is an illicit drug or what health risks it may pose.
Substance reported in Sedibeng
Gauteng Education spokesperson Onwabile Lubhelwana said reports had emerged from communities in the Sedibeng area.
Learners are allegedly obtaining a type of residue that they believe can produce a high.
Lubhelwana said there were also allegations that people who use the substance behave differently afterwards.
However, authorities have not yet established its chemical composition or confirmed its effects.
The reports have prompted investigations at several schools as officials try to establish how widely the substance may be circulating.
Police take sample for testing
The South African Police Service has taken a sample of the suspected substance for analysis.
According to Lubhelwana, the testing is intended to establish exactly what the residue contains.
He also indicated that the substance appeared to be linked to a plastic product and described it as resembling “ice” or flavoured ice.
No laboratory findings had been released in the source.
Authorities investigate supply
The Gauteng Education Department is working with law enforcement to trace the possible source and distribution of the substance.
Investigators are expected to determine whether it is being produced or obtained illegally and how learners are accessing it.
For now, officials have not confirmed that “oil spice” represents a new type of drug.
The department’s investigation and SAPS testing are expected to provide more clarity about what the substance is and whether it poses a danger to learners.
The reports have also renewed concern about access to potentially harmful substances in and around Gauteng schools.