School fights go viral on social media channel
Cape Flats crimefighters have raised the alarm over a social media channel aimed at sharing footage of vicious school fights across Cape Town.
The shocking channel, which has already gathered over 32 000 followers, shows children involved in violent clashes.
The name of the channel, which is known to the Cape Argus sister paper, the Daily Voice, shows teens posting videos of various fights and making commentary on the outcomes.
The channel also has a slogan which says: “Peace was never an option”.
Strandfontein Community Police Forum (CPF) chairperson, Sandy Schuter, said she got a fright when she discovered the channel on WhatsApp this week.
“I stumbled upon a disturbing WhatsApp channel which features videos of school fights. I was appalled, heartbroken, and outraged by the content.
“The fact that other students are cheering on, recording, and sharing these incidents on social media, including a channel with over 30k followers, is absolutely humiliating,” said Schuter.
Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Bronagh Hammond confirmed that the incident took place at a Cape Town school, but said the department will not release the name of the school to protect the learner.
“The WCED has been made aware of the disturbing video that was distributed on a social media platform. The incident occurred on 23 January before the start of the school day.
“The school immediately took steps to address the issue. A disciplinary process was held. The two learners are receiving counselling support and behavioural interventions are planned.”
Hammond said they have since lodged a complaint.
“The WCED has written to the Information Regulator in terms of a complaint and the non-adherence to POPIA. We have also reported the matter to the social media platform.’
She has urged anyone who is aware of such content online to report the sender or group immediately and delete the image.
“Reposting images or distributing them further makes one part of the indecent act.
“Again, parents are advised to have conversations with their children on positive values, showing kindness and empathy towards those in need, as well as, the dangers of social media.”