A disturbing video showing a Grade 10 learner from Milnerton High School in Cape Town being assaulted by a group of boys has triggered national outrage and intensified calls for stronger measures against school bullying in South Africa.
The incident reportedly occurred on October 16, shortly after school hours.
The video, which surfaced on social media a few days later, shows the 16-year-old victim being physically and verbally attacked while several students stand by and record the assault.
The situation gained widespread attention when United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader Nqabayomzi Kwankwa shared the video on Facebook, along with a statement from the victim’s mother.
In her post, she accused Milnerton High School of negligence, claiming that the institution failed to act despite multiple reports of ongoing bullying.
“My son, a Grade 10 student at Milnerton High School, has been subjected to bullying, physical assault, harassment, and emotional abuse by a group of boys, including some members of the school’s Rugby First Team,” the mother said.
“These 18-year-olds, who should embody strength, discipline, and leadership, have instead chosen to intimidate and harm others. I’m speaking out for my son, and for every student who has been silenced or ignored. To Milnerton High School in Cape Town: it is your duty to protect your students.”
Facebook
Her statement sparked an emotional response across the country, as parents, students, and community members condemned the violent behavior displayed in the video and demanded immediate intervention.
Concerned citizen Trudy Van Noie expressed support for the victim’s family, urging them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice.
“Parent, please don’t allow this matter to be swept under the rug. This isn’t just about one incident—it’s about a system that turns a blind eye, enabling a culture of abuse. Bullying is not a rite of passage. It’s a violation of dignity. And silence in the face of that is complicity,” she said.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that a criminal case has been opened following the assault.
“Milnerton police are investigating an assault to cause grievous bodily harm case involving a 16-year-old learner at a secondary school in Milnerton,” police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg stated.
“The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation, and no arrests have been made yet.”
Kwankwa assured the public that the UDM would continue to seek accountability and advocate for justice for the victim.
“The UDM is doing its best to get to the bottom of this,” he said.
The Western Cape Department of Education has been contacted for comment, and updates are expected once their response is received.
Meanwhile, the video continues to fuel a nationwide discussion about bullying, school accountability, and the urgent need for stronger protective measures to ensure that no student suffers abuse under the guise of school culture or hierarchy.
