MBOMBELA - The Provincial Commissioner for Police, Lt Gen Mondli Zuma, has extended a strong warning to the youths of the province to remain respectful of others - and especially their elders - at all times.

This comes after a video of two learners, aged 15 and 19, recently went viral on social media. The footage shows the learners attacking a 61-year-old bus driver who were transporting them from Leslie to Secunda.

Video Credit: News24 

According to information at police disposal, the two apparently confronted the driver about leaving them behind on a previous occasion. Before the driver could respond, the culprits allegedly began to kick and punch him while the bus was already in motion, thereby putting the lives of the other passengers at risk.

The matter was reported to the police and a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm was opened, resulting in the two’s arrest. They appeared in the Leslie Magistrate’s Court on September 14. The 15-year-old was released into his parents’ custody, and the other accused on a warning. They will reappear in the same court on 10 October.

Zuma urged parents to take responsibility for their children’s behaviour. He also encouraged parents to search their children’s bags regularly for dangerous weapons or drugs. In cases where parents are in need of outside intervention, the SAPS, in conjunction with other stakeholders, can be approached for the necessary assistance.

Submitted by: Col Mtsholi Bhembe
Subedited by: Lynette Brink
Editor: Anchen Coetzee