Alarming rise in sexual violence within Manenberg schools

Manenberg police have reported an alarming rise in incidents of sexual violence within schools situated in their precinct, urging action and heightened attention from the community.

According to a recent statement released to the Athlone News, these occurrences have made educational institutions in the area key sites for sexual harassment.

Police spokesperson Captain Ian Bennet described the trend as “deeply disturbing” and warned of its impact on children. “It has been alarming. This disturbing trend threatens the safety and well-being of our children and will not be tolerated,” he said, adding that a need for vigilance and collective action from parents and community members is needed.

Captain Bennet said this year alone has seen high rates of teenage pregnancies among school students, all of whom are underage. He urged parents to take necessary steps by laying charges, as such circumstances constitute statutory rape. “Silence enables abuse, but justice starts with action,” he noted, spotlighting the critical need for community engagement to combat the rising tide of abuse.

Of particular concern is the prevalence of sexual games among primary school students, which has been reported as disturbing and criminal behaviour, said Captain Bennett. “Children play sexual games at the primary school level; this is also a concern and is criminal. We want to remind the community that, as young as these perpetrators are, they could find themselves in conflict with the law.” 

He further cautioned against corporal punishment involving inappropriate touching, saying exploitation under the guise of discipline is unacceptable. “Not even parents are allowed to touch or use sexual violence as a means of corporal punishment."

Responding to the sexual violence incidents, the Western Cape Education Department WCED said it was engaging with Manenberg schools regarding the claims of an increase in sexual violence.

The WCED Safe Schools centre has received three cases of sexual assault/abuse in schools since January this year in Manenberg.

 “Increasing reports from schools and support staff indicate that some learners are accessing inappropriate online content, including pornography and other sexually explicit material, which is having a concerning impact on their behaviour and emotional wellbeing,” it said in a statement. 

The WCED urged all parents and guardians to take active steps in monitoring and managing the use of media devices in their homes. The department said that while technology offers many educational benefits, it also presents risks when not properly supervised. “Children are naturally curious, and without appropriate boundaries, they may be exposed to content that is not age-appropriate and potentially harmful to their development and behaviour around other peers”.

The WCED said it encouraged parents to activate parental controls on all devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, regularly check browsing history and app usage, have open conversations with children about responsible digital behaviour and the dangers of inappropriate content, and set clear rules around screen time and device access, especially after bedtime.

Police plan to step up awareness programmes in schools, aiming to make them safe spaces for learning rather than targets for abuse. “Criminal action against our young people will not be tolerated.” 

The precinct has also seen an increase in thefts and robberies, especially of mobile phones. However, police noted that several reports turned out to be false, resulting in perjury charges.

“This practice should stop immediately, as it affects your future when applying for jobs. Your criminal record will show your dishonesty.” 

Residents with information about crime can contact Manenberg SAPS at 021 699 9400 or Crime Stop at 0860 010 111.