Six of eight boys charged with assaulting a 16-year-old cancer survivor at Milnerton High School in Cape Town have been granted R2,000 bail each. The attack, captured in a viral video, involved weapons like a hockey stick and prompted school suspensions and calls for better anti-bullying measures. The case was postponed to allow the accused to prepare for exams.
On October 23, 2025, eight learners aged 17 to 18 from Milnerton High School appeared at Cape Town Magistrates’ Court, charged with assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The boys allegedly attacked a 16-year-old Grade 10 learner, a cancer survivor who had recently completed chemotherapy, using a hockey stick, hosepipe, and belt. A video circulating on social media showed the group, including members of the school’s first-team rugby squad, physically and verbally assaulting the victim while others recorded or encouraged the act.
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila stated the State did not oppose bail, as the accused had fixed addresses and no prior cases. Six received R2,000 bail each, with conditions prohibiting contact with the complainant or witnesses, entry to the school premises until the case concludes, and surrender of cellphones—five were handed over in court. Two juveniles appeared separately; one was released on warning after assessment, the other pending assessment but released to parents.
The case was postponed to January 20, 2026, to allow the accused to study at home and write exams at the Western Cape Education Department’s (WCED) Metro North District Office. WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond noted the school reported the assault on Friday, leading to a school governing body meeting on Tuesday that precautionarily suspended the eight learners. A disciplinary hearing will follow, with only the head of department able to approve expulsions.
Critics highlighted delays in reporting and inadequate psychosocial support. Parliamentary basic education committee chairperson Khomotjo Joy Maimela described it as a serious criminal matter amid a culture of violence, noting gaps in the school and department’s response. Equal Education deputy secretary Nontsikelelo Dlulani urged punishment for the attackers and trauma support for the victim, emphasizing bullying’s lasting effects. Hammond confirmed counselling for the learner and commitments to anti-bullying programs, while additional unreported incidents surfaced from circulating videos.
Adolescent coach Jessica Allschwang warned of bullying’s impact on mental health, self-esteem, and brain development, calling for systemic changes beyond campaigns to prevent cycles of abuse.