Drugs and abortion pills found as 17 Gauteng schools are searched

Drugs, including nyaope and dagga, were discovered during search-and-seizure operations at schools across the province.

Image: GDOE

Gauteng Education MEC Lebogang Maile has intensified school safety operations across the province after drugs, abortion pills, and other prohibited items were discovered during police-led searches at schools.

The latest search-and-seizure operations, conducted on Wednesday, brought the number of schools searched to 17 as authorities continue efforts to remove drugs, weapons, and other illegal items from school premises.

Schools searched on Wednesday included Baleseng Junior Secondary School, Tiyelelani Secondary School, Ngaka Maseko Secondary School, Holy Trinity Secondary School, and FR Smangaliso Mkhathwa Secondary School.

According to the Gauteng Education Department, the operations uncovered nyaope, abortion pills, and a substantial quantity of dagga.

In one incident, a female pupil was found in possession of a large amount of dagga, prompting concerns that the drugs may have been intended for distribution.

In a separate case, a pupil found carrying small packets of dagga reportedly admitted that he had been recruited by a local drug dealer to sell the drug.

The discoveries have raised alarm among provincial authorities, who say criminal networks are increasingly targeting vulnerable pupils.

“These discoveries are extremely concerning. Our children must never be used as instruments for criminal activity. Those who target learners and use them to distribute drugs are attacking the future of our communities,” Maile said.

The searches form part of the province's broader school safety strategy and are linked to the It Takes a Village to Raise a Child programme, which seeks to mobilise communities, parents, and government institutions to protect pupils.

Maile said addressing drug abuse, violence, and other safety threats in schools requires a collective effort from all sectors of society.

“It takes a village to raise a child. Schools cannot confront these challenges alone. Parents, communities, law enforcement agencies, school governing bodies, and the government must work together to protect our children and ensure that schools remain safe and conducive environments for learning.”

The department said the operations will continue across the province as authorities seek to strengthen discipline, improve safety, and prevent dangerous substances and weapons from entering schools.