Eight Milnerton High School pupils, aged between 17 and 18, are set to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court today, Thursday, October 23, 2025, in connection with a violent assault that shocked the nation and reignited concerns about bullying in South African schools.
The teenagers face serious charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm after a Grade 10 learner, aged 16, was brutally attacked on school grounds on October 16, 2025. The disturbing incident, captured on video, quickly spread across social media platforms, prompting widespread condemnation from parents, education authorities, and child rights organizations.
In the footage, the victim can be seen surrounded by several older pupils who take turns hitting and kicking him while others look on. The victim’s pleas for help go ignored as the attackers continue to beat him. The video’s circulation has sparked outrage across the country, with many calling for stronger anti-bullying measures and harsher disciplinary action within schools.
Community and parental outrage
Parents of Milnerton High students have expressed deep concern over the school’s handling of the matter. Some allege that reports of bullying at the school had been ignored long before this attack took place. “This was not the first time learners complained about bullying,” said one parent, who asked to remain anonymous. “The school should have acted sooner to prevent something like this.”
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that it is cooperating with police in the investigation and has launched an internal inquiry into the incident. Department spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said the department was “appalled by the level of violence” displayed in the video and emphasized that the safety of learners remains a top priority.
“We are working closely with law enforcement and child protection services to ensure justice is served and that all affected learners receive the necessary psychosocial support,” Hammond stated.
Legal proceedings begin
The eight accused pupils were arrested earlier this week after being identified from the video. They were held at a youth detention facility and are expected to make their first court appearance today. Authorities have confirmed that all suspects are being charged as minors under the Child Justice Act, which ensures that juvenile offenders are treated in a manner appropriate to their age while still being held accountable for their actions.
Meanwhile, the 16-year-old victim is reportedly recovering at home after receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the attack. His family has expressed relief that arrests were made but remains traumatized by the ordeal.
“We are grateful that people finally saw what was happening,” said the victim’s mother. “My child went through something no learner should ever experience at school. We want justice, but we also want change.”
Nationwide reaction
The incident has reignited public debate about school violence, peer pressure, and the need for stricter supervision in educational institutions. Child advocacy groups have urged the government to implement stronger anti-bullying programs and counseling services.
As the case unfolds in court, South Africans are watching closely—hoping that accountability will lead to meaningful change in how schools handle violence and protect learners.
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