The Northern Cape Department of Education has confirmed it will take disciplinary action against a group of Grade 11 learners who allegedly took a teacher’s car without permission and crashed it. The incident occurred on May 16, 2025, during lunchtime at Vaalharts Combined School in Jan Kempdorp.
According to department spokesperson Geoffrey van der Merwe, the learners unlawfully took the educator’s vehicle and went on what appears to be a joyride, resulting in a crash. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries reported, but the event has sparked concern among school authorities and law enforcement.
Van der Merwe stated that the matter is under internal investigation and that disciplinary procedures are being initiated against the pupils involved. “The department is taking the matter very seriously, and the necessary disciplinary action will be taken against the learner involved,” he emphasized.
Northern Cape police have also opened a criminal case in relation to the incident. Police spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers confirmed that the pupils took the vehicle without the teacher’s consent. The students reportedly drove the car for an unspecified period before crashing it.
Ehlers explained that a case of using a motor vehicle without the owner’s permission has been registered. She added that further charges may be added as the police investigation continues. “Police have registered an accident report, and we are monitoring the situation closely. Additional charges could follow based on the outcome of the investigation,” she said.
The event has raised concerns about student behavior and the security measures in place at schools. Many are questioning how the pupils managed to access the car and what could have motivated them to take such a risk.
Vaalharts Combined School, where the incident took place, has not released a public statement, but school management is believed to be cooperating with both the Department of Education and the South African Police Service during the ongoing inquiry.
The Department of Education is urging schools to reinforce safety and security protocols and to remind learners of the serious consequences of such behavior. They also called on parents and guardians to play a more active role in guiding learners to make responsible decisions.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about youth discipline and respect for property, especially in educational environments. As the investigation unfolds, the school community and broader public await the final outcomes and potential policy responses that could emerge from this troubling event.