A joint operation at the Ekangala School of Specialisation has resulted in the seizure of dangerous weapons, cigarettes and alcohol as authorities step up efforts to keep prohibited items out of school premises.
The operation was conducted on Friday, 7 August 2026, by members of Ekangala SAPS in collaboration with the Community Policing Forum (CPF), Ekangala Patrollers and the Department of Community Safety.
The joint team carried out a search at the school after receiving information regarding prohibited items allegedly being brought onto or sold within the school environment.
During the operation, officers confiscated several dangerous weapons, as well as cigarettes and bottles of alcohol.
Among the alcohol seized were small bottles of vodka containing 43% alcohol. Police said information received during the operation indicated that the vodka was allegedly being sold locally.
Acting on the information, law enforcement officers followed the trail to a residence in Ekangala believed to be connected to the supply of the alcohol.
At the residence, officers reportedly found an elderly woman who identified herself as the mother of the suspected seller. The woman, identified as Ms Mariam, allegedly told police that she was unaware that her son was involved in selling alcohol.
According to police, the woman also informed officers that her son was not at home when they arrived.
Several boxes containing the alcohol were subsequently discovered on the premises. The items were confiscated by authorities and booked into the SAP 13 exhibit store as part of the ongoing investigation.
The suspected seller was not found at the residence and could not be located at the time of the operation.
Police said investigations are continuing as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the possession and alleged sale of the alcohol.
The operation forms part of broader efforts by law enforcement and community structures to address the presence of dangerous and prohibited items in schools.
The seizure of weapons and alcohol at a school has also raised concerns about the potential risks posed to learners and staff when such items enter educational environments. Authorities continue to encourage communities, parents and school stakeholders to work with police and report information that could help prevent crime around schools.
The involvement of the Community Policing Forum, local patrollers and the Department of Community Safety demonstrates the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies and communities in maintaining safer schools.
The suspect remains at large, and no arrest has been confirmed in connection with the alleged sale of the alcohol at the time of publication.
Further developments are expected as the investigation continues.
Source: Thepressradio.com
