Seven School Learners Appear in Court Over Viral Assault Incident

Seven teenage school girls from Johannesburg appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 19 May 2025, after a viral video captured them violently attacking a fellow 14-year-old pupil. Aged between 13 and 14, the girls now face charges of common assault.

The brutal attack took place in Yeoville on 10 May 2025 following an alleged dispute. In the now widely shared footage, the girls can be seen punching and kicking another teenage girl. The disturbing scene triggered public outrage and renewed calls to tackle school violence head-on.

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Court Proceedings and Child Justice Intervention

Police arrested the learners shortly after the video spread across social media. Authorities brought the girls before a child justice court for a Preliminary Inquiry (PLI), as mandated by the Child Justice Act. The PLI aims to assess the children’s backgrounds, family situations, and any potential underlying causes behind their conduct.

The court released all seven minors into the care of their parents. According to Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the Gauteng branch of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), two of the girls have already completed assessments by probation officers. The case will resume on 21 May 2025 to conclude the inquiry.

Schools Act Swiftly with Disciplinary Action

The accused students come from Bedfordview High School, Kensington High School, Queens High School, and Phoenix College. Each school took immediate disciplinary action by suspending the involved learners pending the outcome of both legal and internal investigations.

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) responded with strong condemnation. “Violence among learners—whether in or outside school premises—is completely unacceptable and will have lasting consequences,” the department said in a statement. “Creating safe, respectful, and supportive schools remains one of our top priorities.”

Investigations and Support Services Underway

In addition to suspensions, schools have launched formal investigations based on their codes of conduct and disciplinary policies. The GDE confirmed that both the victim and those involved will receive psycho-social support through district-based teams.

The department also urged learners to speak out. “Keeping silent only shields the perpetrators,” officials warned. “We urge learners to report bullying or violence to teachers, principals, or district offices.”

Parental Role in Preventing School Violence

The GDE stressed the importance of parental involvement in shaping children’s behavior and values. “Building a non-violent society starts at home,” the statement read. “Parents must partner with schools to promote empathy, discipline, and accountability.”

Officials believe active parenting and collaboration between families and schools are essential to restoring safe educational environments. This case, they say, is not just about punishment—it’s about changing the culture around how young people handle conflict.

A National Wake-Up Call

This incident serves as a harsh reminder of the urgent need to tackle school violence in South Africa. It highlights a growing concern over bullying and aggression among teenagers and calls for a united front from educators, families, and government institutions.

The justice system, by addressing the issue promptly, sets an example that violent behavior among youth will not be tolerated or dismissed. Meanwhile, education authorities are reinforcing support systems and encouraging learners to stand against abuse.

Support Resources for Affected Learners

For learners and families struggling with bullying or violence, several free, confidential support lines are available:

• Childline South Africa – Call 116 (Available 24/7)
• SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) – Call 0800 567 567
• GDE Reporting Platforms – WhatsApp: 060 891 0361 or Call: 0800 000 789

As this case unfolds, it becomes a call to action for South Africans to rethink how schools, homes, and communities address youth violence. By confronting these challenges through discipline, open dialogue, and early support, the country can move closer to creating school environments where learning, not fear, takes center stage.