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A Cape Town school has issued a warning to parents following the “attempted abductions” of two pupils.

As the safety of our children is once again in the public eye after the disappearance of Joshlin Smith, Oval North High School in Beacon Valley has sent a warning letter to parents after “attempted abductions of some… learners”.

“Similar reports have been reported by our neighbouring schools. It is not only our younger learners who are targeted but also our older learners, up to matriculants,” the letter said.

When approached for comment by News24, the school directed enquiries to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), who confirmed “an alleged attempt of abduction of a learner” on Tuesday, 27 February.

WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond told the publication “The learner fought the alleged perpetrators off. The alleged incident happened on his way to school. On arrival at the school, the matter was reported, and SAPS called in.”

A second incident took place later in the week when a pupil reported “suspicious behaviour by males in a vehicle” while travelling to and from school. Both incidents have been reported to the police.

Hammond further stated “Due to the incidents, the school felt the need to raise awareness about the possible dangers when travelling to and from school. This is a message that we should all be reminded of from time to time.”

“While SAPS would be able to confirm any developments with the reported cases, we can confirm that no recent similar cases have been confirmed by schools.”

Cape Flats Safety Forum chairperson Abie Isaacs said the organisation was aware of the letter which had been circulated but was not aware of any incidents in which pupils had been abducted or targeted for abduction. Isaacs encouraged schools and parents to take additional steps to keep pupils safe.

The warning follows the disappearance of four children in the Western Cape in the last two weeks.

[source:news24]