Mpumalanga’s MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, Jackie Macie, spearheaded a surprise raid at a notorious school in Matsulu today as part of an ongoing initiative to combat drugs, weapons, and gang activity in educational institutions.
The operation, conducted alongside the South African Police Service (SAPS), targeted the school following complaints of gang violence and illegal substances being brought onto the premises.
Unannounced Search Yields Drugs, No Weapons Found
MEC Macie confirmed that while no dangerous weapons were recovered during the raid, authorities seized marijuana from some learners.
“We are excited that we did not find dangerous weapons, but we are not happy that learners were found with drugs,” Macie stated. “Our goal is to foster a culture of learning, not disruption.”
The MEC suggested that the operation may have been compromised, hinting that individuals within the community could have tipped off students before the raid.
“Some adults in the village are supplying these children,” Macie said, emphasizing that future raids would remain unannounced to prevent interference.
Rehabilitation Over Punishment
Rather than arresting students found with illegal substances, authorities are working with the Department of Social Development (DSD) to provide rehabilitation and counseling.
“Our purpose is not to condemn these children but to guide them back to their education,” Macie explained. “We want them to focus on learning, not drugs or violence.”
Ongoing Safety Initiative
The raid forms part of a broader provincial effort to ensure school safety. Similar operations have been conducted in other troubled schools, including one in Masoyi two months ago, where knives, sharp objects, and drugs were confiscated.
Macie stressed that the program will continue indefinitely, regardless of leadership changes, to maintain safe learning environments.
“This initiative must persist as long as schools exist,” she said. “Safety in our schools is non-negotiable.”
The raid was a step forward but challenges remain in curbing outside influences on learners.
As the operation concludes for the day, authorities warn that more unannounced searches will follow, sending a clear message that illegal activities will not be tolerated in Mpumalanga’s schools.