Escalating School Robberies in Nelson Mandela Bay Prompt Major Security Overhaul

NELSON MANDELA BAY, South Africa — In an alarming trend, 131 schools in the Nelson Mandela Bay region have been targeted in robberies, most at gunpoint, over the past five months, according to Malibongwe Mtima, a spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Department of Education. The most affected areas include KwaZakhele, Zwide, and Motherwell in Gqeberha, which have been designated as crime "hotspots" by the provincial government.

The recent spike in violent incidents, particularly at the beginning of the school term, underscores the severity of the situation. For instance, a shocking incident occurred last week at Elufefeni Primary School in Motherwell where teachers were hijacked at gunpoint right outside the school premises. Police spokesperson Andre Beetge detailed how three armed suspects confronted the teachers, commandeered their vehicle, and took their personal items. The vehicle was later found abandoned nearby.

Additional reports from Kariega highlight multiple gunpoint robberies at schools including Phaphani and Tinarha High Schools, as well as Mjuleni Primary School. At KwaZakhele High School, the robbers, often as young as the students, have repeatedly targeted the institution, with one teacher recounting how they mistook the assailants’ firearms for toys due to their youthful appearance.

The constant threat has taken a toll on the educational staff. Phumzile Vena, the outgoing chairperson of the School Governing Body at KwaZakhele High School, expressed concern that the fear for personal safety is driving teachers to consider quitting. He noted that after a recent robbery, only 9 out of 30 teachers felt safe enough to return.

In response to the escalating crisis, Education MEC Fundile Gade announced a substantial R59-million security enhancement initiative for the 2024/2025 fiscal year. The plan includes the installation of surveillance cameras, access control systems, emergency alert buttons linked to local police stations, and improved fencing. Additionally, 1,000 new security guards and significant administrative support will be added to bolster the safety measures.

These steps reflect a comprehensive approach to curbing the wave of school-related crimes and restoring a safe learning environment, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting educational institutions and their communities.