HANKEY – Vandalism Senior Secondary School is appealing to businesses, parents and the wider community for assistance after a burglary and extensive vandalism left the school facing repair costs of up to R90,000.

According to school governing body treasurer Cornelius Damons, the damage was discovered on the morning of 1 August, when the school’s caretaker alerted management to the break-in.

Damons said several areas of the school had been targeted, including the school nutrition kitchen, the ladies’ bathroom and parts of the electrical infrastructure.

“The school nutrition kitchen, the ladies’ bathroom and the ceiling were vandalised. The distribution board in the staff room was damaged, and the copper pipes were removed from two fridges in the staff room,” said Damons.

He estimated that repairs would cost between R80,000 and R90,000.

“That is money the school does not have,” said Damons.

He confirmed that a case has been opened with the local police station, and forensic investigators have processed the scene.

While the school has experienced break-ins in the past, Damons said this incident was unlike anything they had dealt with before.

“We had break-ins before, but not on this scale. It’s devastating,” said Damons.

He warned that restoring the damaged facilities could take about three months, provided enough funds were raised quickly.

“We want to appeal to businesses, parents and our community to step in and help,” said Damons.

He added that the school governing body had discussed strengthening security measures once funding became available to prevent similar incidents in future.

In a statement, the school described the incident as “a very sad day for Hankey Secondary School” and said that it was heartbreaking that an institution dedicated to giving learners hope and opportunities had become the target of senseless criminal acts.

“Every broken sink, damaged classroom, stolen cable and act of vandalism is more than damage to a building; it is an attack on the education, dignity and future of our learners,” the statement said.

The school called on residents to help protect the institution by reporting criminal activity and promoting respect for public property.

Despite the setback, the school said it remained committed to rebuilding and continuing its mission of providing quality education.

“Our children deserve better. Our community deserves better. Protect our school. Protect our learners. Protect their future,” the statement said.
Police spokesperson Captain Marius McCarthy confirmed that a case of business burglary and malicious damage to property has been opened following a reported burglary at Hankey Senior Secondary School.

“It is alleged that staff members arrived at the school and noticed that the staff room door had been forced open and that a heater and a kettle were missing,” said McCarthy.

“Furthermore, it was noticed that a power box had been opened and electrical wiring had been removed. The hand wash basins in the ablution facilities had also been removed from the wall and were found on the floor.”

McCarthy urged anyone with information that could assist with the investigation to contact Detective Warrant Officer Jacobs on 067 598 1993 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or report it to their nearest police station.

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