The police have warned parents they could face criminal negligence charges if they send children to purchase cigarettes or vapes, following a safety meeting at Stellenberg High School.
Stellenberg High school teacher Mr Willem met with Ward Councillor Hendri Terbanche and several South African Police Service officials to discuss learner safety issues.
The meeting on Thursday, 19 February was to introduce the neighbourhood safety officers (nso) to the different role-players including the school.
A few safety concerns regarding scholars were brought to light by the school including growing concerns about underage pupils buying vapes and cigarettes at local shops near the school.
The police contingent included Colonel Gonum Munsamy from Durbanville police, Vispol Head (Visible Policing Head) Lieutenant Colonel Tshomi-Nofemele, Sergeant Tinswalo J Sithole, NSO Constable Lithemba Ntungele, Constable Kyle Theron, and Warrant Officer Gerrit Galant, a crime analyst.
Warning to parents
Munsamy emphasised that the police take a proactive approach to learner safety and issued a stern warning to parents and guardians.
“Do not send your children to purchase cigarettes and/or vape on your behalf,” she said. “It amounts to criminal negligence on the part of the adult.”
