The South African Police Services (SAPS) conducted a raid, extracting illegal substances from learners at Fairvale Secondary School in Wentworth, on Friday.
The surprise drug search was conducted during school hours, by more than 60 police officers, including the Metro Police and the Umlazi K9 unit and other units. Drugs, dangerous and sharp objects, and suspicious large amounts of money were found on and confiscated from learners.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education (KZNDOE) commends the SAPS for their excellent work towards bringing order back into schools.
“We will not idly stand by while drugs and illegal activities threaten the safety and education of our children,” Sipho Hlomuka, KZN MEC for Education.
Drug searches are not new to schools in Wentworth or at Fairvale. Over the past couple of years, the community has been prone to violence amongst the youth, more so drug abuse and gun violence. It is unfortunate that the violence has infiltrated into schools as well.
In 2023, a source reported that 17-year-old Leyton Fynn was shot and killed on his way to school at Fairvale, one incident among many. This is proof that it does not just stop at bringing drugs and small weapons to schools but escalates to lives being lost and the youth dying.
Hlomuka further pleads with parents and guardians to also keep an eye on their children and the things they are involved in. “We ask that parents be intentional about ensuring that their children stay away from the use of illegal substances and any criminal activities. The safety and well-being of our learners requires joint effort between the Department, law enforcement, and families,” he said.
Wentworth residents also took to social media to applaud and thank all authorities involved in the drug search, ensuring that schools are safe for teaching and learning once again.
