TWO security guards were locked in their security room at Tafelsig Primary school in Mitchells Plain before robbers broke into a class and stole items.
Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Bronagh Hammond confirmed the incident.
“The two security guards located at the school were locked in their security room at around 3am (Tuesday) morning.
“They were not held hostage, per se, but were locked inside the room behind a reinforced door. Thankfully they were not harmed,” Hammond said.
The perpetrators then broke into a classroom and stole paper, toilet rolls and a homework book.
While teaching and learning continued at the school Tuesday, Hammond said the security company arranged for alternative guards in the evening and there would be police presence in the area.
Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg said Mitchell’s Plain police were investigating a housebreaking and theft case.
“According to reports suspects broke into the school and took stationery items belonging to the school. We can confirm that nobody was tied up or sustained any injuries.”
This comes as the Western Cape has reported a significant increase in incidents of burglary and vandalism at schools with electrical and bathroom fixtures, appliances, food for learners, fencing and security equipment damaged or stolen.
During the summer holidays, 47 incidents of burglary or vandalism were reported at 34 schools.
This is an increase from the 26 incidents reported at 24 schools during the same period last year.
“Despite increasing the number of schools where the Western Cape Government subsidised holiday security to 480 schools this year, we have unfortunately seen an increase in cases of burglary and vandalism of our schools during this period,” said education MEC David Maynier.
“While majority of incidents were minor in nature, these incidents are costly to schools, both in terms of the cost of replacement and the impact on school functionality.”
“We urge the public to keep a close eye on their local schools, and to report suspicious activity in the vicinity of our schools to South African Police Services (SAPS) or the Safe Schools hotline (0800 45 46 47) immediately.”
Cape Times