“How Can Boys Be So Cruel?”
CCN Reporting
Cape Town: – A disturbing cell phone video showing a 16-year-old Milnerton High School learner being viciously beaten by several classmates, has sent shockwaves across South Africa.
Furious parents, community leaders and MPs demanding justice and accountability. The incident reportedly took place on October 16, just after school ended. In the viral footage, the terrified Grade 10 learner is cornered, slapped, and struck repeatedly while others laugh and film the attack instead of helping.
According to reports, the boy, who recently overcame cancer, has begged to be home-schooled following the ordeal. His mother alleges that she had reported bullying incidents to the school before, but was ignored. “They failed to protect my son,” she said in a statement shared by UDM deputy president Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, who brought national attention to the video.
Eight Learners Suspended
Milnerton High principal Gert JP van Tonder confirmed that eight learners have been placed on precautionary suspension, while investigations continue.
In a letter to parents, he said the School Governing Body approved the suspensions to ensure a “fair and transparent” disciplinary process.
“Bullying, intimidation, and any form of assault cannot and will not be tolerated at Milnerton High,” Van Tonder said.
“These behaviours are contrary to our school values and will always be dealt with firmly and fairly.”
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has opened its own investigation and confirmed that counselling is being provided to the victim and witnesses.
Police have also launched a criminal probe for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm
National Outrage and Political Pressure
Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Basic Education condemned the assault in the strongest terms.
Chairperson Joy Maimela said: “What occurred is not merely bullying, it borders on assault, a criminal offence that demands urgent and decisive action from all relevant authorities.”
Social media has exploded with outrage:
Elaine Parry: “💔 Heartbreaking. How can young boys be so incredibly cruel? Absolutely disgusting.”
Elize Brooks: “Precautionary suspension? Sjoe! They should be expelled and face criminal charges.”
Angela Campbell: “Are any of them writing matric exams? Or are they just on study leave like everyone else?”
Humaira Ismail: “I hope this investigation is taken seriously and updates are shared soon.”
Rumours have also circulated online about the possible involvement of a Stormers Academy rugby player, but neither the school nor the rugby franchise has confirmed or commented on that claim. Authorities are urging the public not to spread unverified information.
Community Anger Boiling Over
The video has triggered deep anger across Cape Town’s northern suburbs. Parents are calling for stricter school discipline and transparency, while others demand cameras in hallways and stronger anti-bullying measures. Education activists warn that the assault highlights a culture of silence and fear in schools, where victims often stay quiet until tragedy strikes.
“We are raising children who think violence is entertainment,” one Cape Town parent said. “This is not discipline, it’s cruelty.”
Teaching Continues, But Trust Is Broken
Despite the storm, Van Tonder assured parents that learning continues “as usual,” and that the school remains focused on academic stability.
However, for many, the damage is already done, not just to the young victim, but to the school’s reputation and the sense of safety every learner deserves.
Until accountability is clear, Milnerton High stands at the centre of a national reckoning, a reminder that bullying is not kids being kids.
It’s violence….!
Featured image – Social media
