The Eastern Cape Department of Education has suspended five pupils from David Mama Senior Secondary School in Mdantsane after a disturbing video surfaced showing a female learner being slapped and harassed by a group of boys on a school transport bus.
The incident began on the bus and continued after the pupils disembarked. A fellow learner filmed the assault, but none of the bystanders intervened—instead, they were seen laughing as the attack unfolded.
The video, which went viral over the weekend, shows at least two boys repeatedly slapping the girl while others mocked and recorded the ordeal.
Education MEC Fundile Gade, accompanied by senior department officials, visited the school to address the matter and monitor the initial response. “What happened to this learner is deeply regrettable. We will ensure she receives the necessary support while the investigation continues,” said Gade, adding that law enforcement will also be involved.
Provincial Department of Education spokesperson Vuyiseka Mboxeka confirmed that the investigation is expected to take 14 days. The school bus driver, who failed to act during the incident, has also been suspended pending further inquiry.