Pixabay
Pixabay
Another case of child abduction involving learners making their way to school has put parents and teachers in the Cape on high alert, following an incident in Southern Suburbs.
In a communication shared by the provincial government, Western Cape Minister for Education Debbie Schäfer revealed that a Grade 9 learner was reportedly abducted and allegedly sexually assaulted while travelling to school on the morning of 23 August 2018.
Southern Suburbs child abduction
The learner reported that men in a white BMW, with tinted windows, stopped next to her and pulled her into the car, before driving around with her for hours.
The matter has been reported to the South African Police Services Steenberg and the learner has received medical attention. A school social worker and psychologist are also providing counselling to the learner and her family.
This shocking case in Southern Suburbs follows two other abductions in the Zonnebloom area and one failed attempt that took place in Rylands just a couple of weeks ago. The spate of these crimes has lead Schäfer to call for a stronger police presence outside public schools, for when learners are arriving and leaving:
“While I understand that it is difficult for the extremely under-resourced SAPS to patrol every road that learners travel on, I urge them to please increase patrols during the morning and afternoons when learners are travelling to and from schools.”
“I also urge parents and community members to be EXTRA vigilant and to report any suspicious vehicles or persons immediately to the SAPS.”
Advice for children on “stranger danger”
Learners are advised to remain within the school gates until they are able to see either a parent, a caregiver or their mode of transport. Those who have to walk to their departure areas are also advised to stay in groups at all times.
Minister Schäfer also wants schools to reiterate the threat of “stranger danger”. Learners must stay vigilant and know not to accept any free food, drinks money or any other gifts from strangers, and report any suspicious activity to someone who works for their school.
