Verulam schools are witnessing a disturbing rise in drug turf wars, with high school girls peddling mandrax and cannabis to pupils. According to Prem Balram, head of Reaction Unit South Africa, they receive an average of four calls a week for drug-related incidents at high schools in Verulam.
Girls from grades 8 to 12 are dealing in drugs, and the reports of gang violence, stabbings, intimidation, assaults, and bullying are linked to a drug turf war in schools. Balram said that some of the under-aged girls are selling their bodies to drug dealers for money and drugs.
Drug Dealers Targeting Schools
Drug dealers are targeting schools, and some have been found to be using children from their families, especially young girls, to peddle drugs. They train these girls to exert pressure on other children to take drugs or peddle for money. This has led to a whole new generation of drug dealers, with some girls being caught with drugs in school.
According to a source who worked closely with the police, investigations have revealed that schoolgirls have close links with drug dealers in Verulam and surrounding areas. The source said that the daughter of a school governing body member at a school in the area was also caught with drugs in school.
Consequences of Drug Abuse
The consequences of drug abuse are severe, and it is not just the pupils who are affected. Teachers and principals are also being intimidated and assaulted, making it difficult for them to combat the scourge. The problem is that in most cases, these pupils are not arrested or charged, and instead face a short suspension or expulsion.
As noted by the South African Police Service, the war on drugs requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime also emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of drug abuse.
To address this issue, the following steps can be taken:
- Implementing effective drug education programs in schools
- Providing support and counseling to pupils who are struggling with drug addiction
- Increasing police presence in and around schools
- Collaborating with community organizations to address the root causes of drug abuse
By working together, we can reduce the incidence of drug-related incidents in Verulam schools and create a safer and healthier environment for all pupils.
