What really happened at Milnerton High School? Inside viral bullying case in South Africa

South African authorities have suspended eight pupils following a shocking case of alleged bullying at Milnerton High School in Cape Town that has drawn nationwide attention.

A video circulated widely on social media last week shows several boys repeatedly assaulting a fellow student using objects such as a hockey stick, hosepipe, and belt. Reports indicate the victim was one of nine pupils allegedly attacked in the incident.

The clip, lasting just over two minutes, shows the boy pleading for the assault to stop, only to be struck again while some of the attackers laugh and cheer. The disturbing footage prompted angry parents to gather outside the school on Wednesday in protest, resulting in police using tear gas to disperse the crowd. Political party members also joined, announcing plans for further demonstrations.

The victim’s mother revealed that her 16-year-old son had recently completed chemotherapy after battling cancer earlier this year. “My child had just beaten cancer, only for something like this to happen to him,” she said. The boy has since been withdrawn from the school, according to his uncle.

Bullying in South African schools remains a persistent issue, often gaining attention when videos of violent attacks go viral. Amnesty International South Africa condemned the incident as “deeply disturbing” and called for timely disciplinary action. “No child should ever endure such brutality in a space where pupils should feel safe and protected,” the organisation said in a post on X.

Authorities have confirmed that an assault case has been opened. The South African education ministry said it is coordinating with the Western Cape education department, which oversees the school, to ensure the suspended pupils face appropriate disciplinary measures. Officials stressed that sharing the video or personal details of those involved could worsen trauma for the victim and violate the rights of all pupils.

Parliament’s education committee chairperson, Joy Maimela, expressed “utter horror and deep concern” over the video, stating that the incident “is not merely bullying but borders on assault — a criminal offence demanding urgent and decisive action from all relevant authorities.”

The Milnerton High School incident has reignited calls for stronger anti-bullying measures, more robust supervision, and accountability in South African schools, highlighting the urgent need for protective mechanisms that ensure the safety and dignity of every learner.

FAQ

1. What happened at Milnerton High School?
Several boys allegedly assaulted a fellow pupil using objects including a hockey stick, hosepipe, and belt.

2. How many students were involved?
Eight pupils were suspended, and reports indicate the victim was one of nine assaulted.

3. What action have authorities taken?
The Western Cape education department has suspended the pupils and opened an assault investigation. The victim has been withdrawn from the school.

4. Why is this incident significant?
The video went viral, drawing national outrage and highlighting persistent issues of bullying and school safety in South Africa.

5. What do human rights organisations say?
Amnesty International condemned the assault as deeply disturbing and urged timely disciplinary action, stressing the need to protect children in schools.

6. Should the public share the video?
No. Authorities warn that sharing the footage or identifying the students could worsen trauma for the victim and infringe on the rights of others involved.

7. What legal implications could there be?
Parliament’s education committee chair described the case as potentially constituting assault, a criminal offence, beyond ordinary bullying.