IOL South African Democratic Teachers’ Union expresses outrage over the kidnapping of a teacher at Happydale Special School, calling for urgent action to enhance school security.
Image: Screenshot
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) said it was deeply disturbed and outraged by the shocking abduction of a teacher at Happydale Special School in Algoa Park, Gqeberha, on Monday.
Video footage of the kidnapping has gone viral on social media.
It shows the teacher driving into the school parking lot and then being ambushed as she exits her vehicle.
The teacher is abducted, and her kidnappers fired warning shots in the air.
On Wednesday morning, the Eastern Cape police said they were still searching for the teacher.
In a statement, the teacher's union said it strongly condemns this violent incident.
"Particularly as it occurred within the premises of a special school, a space meant to provide safety and learning for vulnerable learners.
"This incident not only threatened the safety of learners, teachers, and support personnel but also undermined the provision of education."
Schools must remain sanctuaries of education and development, free from crime and violence.
"We urge law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in locating the teacher and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Furthermore, we call on the Department of Basic Education to strengthen security measures in schools to prevent such attacks, as schools are increasingly becoming soft targets for criminals."
Portfolio Committee on Police Chairperson Ian Cameron, described this incident as not just kidnapping but extortion.
Taking to Facebook Cameron said the woman is said to be the wife of a well-known businessman.
"We will continue to push SAPS leadership and government to treat these acts not as isolated incidents, but as part of an organised threat.
Police have not released the victim's identity or photograph.
IOL News
Related Topics: