Police investigate assault after shocking Milnerton High bullying video goes viral

A shocking video of a Grade 10 learner from Milnerton High School being assaulted by a group of boys has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed calls for stronger action against school bullying.

The incident is believed to have taken place on October 16, shortly after school hours, and the video began circulating on social media days later.

The video shows the 16-year-old being physically and verbally abused while other learners stand by and watch. 

The incident was brought to public attention by a member of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, who posted the video on Facebook along with a statement from the victim’s mother.

In the statement, she accuses Milnerton High School of failing to intervene or protect her son despite repeated reports of bullying.

“My son, a Grade 10 student at Milnerton High School, has been subjected to bullying, physical assault, harassment, and emotional abuse by a group of boys, including some members of the school’s Rugby First Team,” the mother said.

“These 18-year-olds, who should embody strength, discipline, and leadership, have instead chosen to intimidate and harm others. I’m speaking out for my son, and for every student who has been silenced, dismissed, or ignored. To Milnerton High School in Cape Town: it is your duty to protect your students.”

Public outrage continues to grow, with many South Africans condemning the behaviour captured in the video and demanding urgent action. Commenting on the video, concerned citizen Trudy Van Noie urged the victim’s family not to back down in their pursuit of justice.

“Parent, please don’t allow this matter to be swept under the rug. Make a stand, not just for your son, but for every student who has suffered under the cruel weight of bullying in schools.

This isn't just about one incident. It's about a system that too often turns a blind eye, enabling a culture where some students, in the name of power and seniority, privilege, or unchecked behavior, feel entitled to dehumanize others.

We must hold institutions accountable. We must demand that no child is left to endure abuse under the false belief that it's part of growing up or being a junior in school, or worse, that it's somehow deserved.

Bullying is not a rite of passage. It’s a violation of dignity. And silence in the face of that is complicity,” she said

Police have confirmed that a criminal case has been opened.

“Milnerton police are investigating an assault to cause grievous bodily harm case involving a 16-year-old learner at a secondary school in Milnerton," police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said.

"The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation, and no arrests have been made yet.”

Kwankwa said the UDM would continue to push for accountability.

 “The UDM is doing its best to get to the bottom of this,” he said.

IOL has reached out to the Western Cape Department of Education and comment will added once received. 

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