Burglaries, vandalism at schools drops

THERE was a decrease in incidents of burglary and vandalism in Western Cape schools during the winter school holidays.

A total of 15 cases were reported, down from 21 last year. One case was reported as major while the 14 others were classified as minor.

The most severe was reported at a school in Khayelitsha where damage is estimated at about R350 000. Burglars stole 27computers, the main server and a data projector.

Education MEC Debbie Schäfer said the department spent about R10 million a year on emergency repairs for damage resulting from vandalism. This financial year the department increased this allocation to R30m.

“At the start of every school term, one of my main concerns is that teachers and learners will arrive at a school that has been badly vandalised or burgled during the school holidays,” Schäfer said.

The department arranged additional security at 422 schools during the holiday with security measures, including patrols.

Schäfer also attributed the decreasing number of incidents to local communities backing the security measures instituted to look after schools.

“We have found that the safest schools are those where the local citizens help to look after the properties,” she said. “We need communities to be vigilant regarding activities around our schools and report any suspicious behaviour to SAPS as soon as possible,” she said.

Criminals targeted ablution facilities and stole basins, flush mechanisms, copper wiring and pipes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or SMS Crime Stop on 32211.