JOHANNESBURG — An unannounced search-and-seizure operation at three high schools in Alexandra resulted in the confiscation of more than 109 items, Gauteng Education authorities said on Wednesday.
Searches led by MEC uncover weapons and suspected drugs
The operation, led by Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile and carried out with police support, targeted East Bank High School, Realogile High School and Alexandra High School. Officials said items seized included suspected drugs, vapes, knives, scissors and broken glass.
MEC Maile described the discovery as “deeply concerning” and defended the use of unannounced searches to protect pupils and educators and to maintain safe learning environments.
“The discovery of suspected drugs, knives, broken glass, scissors and other potentially dangerous objects in our schools is deeply concerning. These unannounced operations are necessary to protect learners and educators and ensure that our schools remain safe.”
Police to investigate bullet and arrests linked to unrest
Provincial authorities said the find follows a broader campaign to tackle criminality in schools. Police are processing an incident in which a bullet was reportedly found on a learner during a separate visit to Alexandra, and the MEC indicated law-enforcement partners will follow up to determine the source of the ammunition.
Earlier this month, seven pupils were arrested in connection with the torching of East Bank High School, a matter that remains under investigation, officials said.
What was seized
Officials provided a broad breakdown of the types of items removed from pupils and school premises during the operation. The total number of items seized exceeded 109; authorities described them as potentially dangerous or illegal in the school context.
| Category | Examples / notes |
|---|---|
| Suspected drugs | Paraphernalia and substances recovered during searches |
| Vapes | Disposable and refill devices found on pupils or in bags |
| Sharp objects | Knives, scissors, broken glass |
| Ammunition | Police reported one bullet found on a learner during a separate inspection |
Province vows ongoing crackdown
Gauteng Community Safety head Roche Mogorosi accompanied provincial officials on previous surprise visits to Alexandra and stressed that violent behaviour and ill-discipline at schools will not be tolerated. Mogorosi urged thorough investigations into how weapons and ammunition found on school premises entered learner spaces.
Both the education department and police said similar unannounced operations have taken place recently elsewhere in the province — including Khutsong on the West Rand, where weapons and drugs were also recovered — signalling a broader provincial push to remove contraband from schools.
- Why unannounced searches: Officials say they are needed to deter learners from bringing dangerous items and to give a realistic picture of what is on school premises.
- Community role: The MEC called on parents and communities to play a greater role in keeping schools safe and to cooperate with investigators.
- Next steps: Police will process seized items and investigate the source of the ammunition, while disciplinary or criminal procedures may follow for learners implicated.
Impact on learners and schools
Educators and residents in Alexandra have been dealing with recurring safety concerns this year, and the discovery of weapons and drugs is likely to heighten anxiety among parents. Officials framed the operations as part of efforts to restore a safe atmosphere for teaching and learning but acknowledged that searches can strain relationships between schools, learners and families.
Authorities said they will aim to balance discipline and restorative interventions, while ensuring that evidence gathered in these operations is handed over to the appropriate investigative teams.
As the police continue to process the items and pursue enquiries into the provenance of the bullet and other contraband, the provincial education department has signalled that similar inspections will continue across Gauteng.
Residents who wish to raise concerns or offer information were urged to contact their local police station or the Gauteng Education department for guidance on safeguarding children and reporting illegal activity in or around schools.
