Lenasia South Secondary School fell victim to a break-in last weekend (15-16 March), with criminals making off with several valuable materials, including smartboards. The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed the incident, stating that it was reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and an investigation is currently underway.
Through the use of tracking devices installed on ICT equipment and other valuable gadgets, authorities successfully recovered seven out of the nine stolen smartboards with SAPS assistance. The department expressed deep concern over the incident and reiterated its commitment to ensuring school safety.
Steve Mabona, GDE spokesperson, stated, “It is deeply concerning that schools continue to be targeted by criminals who deprive learners of the resources they need for education. We are working closely with law enforcement to recover the stolen items and hold those responsible accountable.”
To enhance security measures at Lenasia South Secondary School, the GDE has implemented several strategies, including:
- Deployment of two Fidelity Security personnel, one for the night shift and one for the day shift, supported by surveillance cameras and an ADT Armed Response Alarm system.
- A district request for the deployment of armed private security personnel, given the school’s location in an informal settlement associated with high crime rates.
- Engagement with the Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign (QLTC), which involves key community stakeholders in addressing school-related challenges such as burglaries, violence, gangsterism, and bullying.
- Increased visibility of police and crime prevention wardens at night to deter criminal activities.
The department has also made a public appeal for community members to play an active role in safeguarding schools and reporting any information that could lead to the apprehension of those responsible for such crimes.
“We urge the community to assist in protecting schools and ensuring that learning and teaching resources are not stolen or vandalized. These criminals must be brought to justice to prevent further disruption of education,” Mabona added.
The break-in at Lenasia South Secondary School highlights ongoing security concerns in schools situated in high-crime areas, prompting calls for stricter protective measures to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment.
Globe Post reached out to SAPS for comment, however at the time of publishing no response had been received.
