On 23 October 2025, eight Milnerton High School learners, aged 17–18, stood trial in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court. They allegedly assaulted a 16-year-old cancer survivor. Specifically, a viral video of the Milnerton High assault shows attackers using a hockey stick, hosepipe, and belt against the Grade 10 learner. Moreover, some accused, reportedly rugby first-team members, face eight counts each of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Court Sets Bail with Firm Conditions
Initially, the court granted six 18-year-old accused R2,000 bail each. Meanwhile, two minors appeared in a separate courtroom. Authorities released one minor on a warning and placed the other in parental care, pending assessment.
“The State didn’t oppose bail since the accused have fixed addresses and no prior convictions,” said National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila.
Additionally, the terms of bail related to the Milnerton High assault forbid contact with victims or witnesses, school entry, and mandate cellphone surrender. As a result, the accused submitted five phones and PINs in court, with one still pending.
School Tackles Milnerton High Assault
Meanwhile, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) suspended the eight learners pending a disciplinary hearing regarding the assault incident at Milnerton High.
“The school alerted us about the assault and quickly launched an investigation,” said WCED’s Bronagh Hammond.
Consequently, the accused will study at home and take exams at an alternative venue. Furthermore, the hearing will decide sanctions, with the WCED head potentially approving expulsion. In addition, the school now probes other unreported bullying incidents after new videos surfaced.
Demands for Justice and Support
Subsequently, the victim, a recent chemotherapy patient, will access counselling, though he missed a session on 23 October.
“The school must offer psychosocial support to ease the trauma,” urged Equal Education’s Nontsikelelo Dlulani.
Moreover, parents protested, asserting the school knew of prior bullying. Chairperson Khomotjo Joy Maimela labeled the assault at Milnerton High a symptom of a broader “culture of violence” at the school.
