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Teen bullied for allegedly not paying "protection money" at top school

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A Cape Town mom has shared cellphone video footage on Facebook and YouTube, showing her son lying in the foetal position on the floor at his high school, while six students beat him up. 

Read: Is your child being bullied at school? Use this questionnaire to find out.

Her son attends a prestigious school that claims to "prepare learners to be responsible members of an ever-changing society by inspiring educational excellence in a secure, caring environment." 

A few days ago, she posted this video clip on her Facebook page and on YouTube: 

The woman's son, who is 14, sustained injuries to his legs and face and was taken to hospital following the attack. 

She met with the school principal and deputy principal, who informed her that they could not guarantee her son's safety at school, even though the problem between the pupils had been taken care of.

Quite a number of people are following the events of her story and she has made a few of her posts regarding the matter available for members of the public to view.

Following her meeting with the principal and deputy principal of the school, the mom posted on her Facebook page to give other moms and dads an update on the progress made in resolving the situation and ensuring justice is served.

It's believed that earlier in the day, the son got involved in an altercation, but then had to attend a class. When class was dismissed, the teen was ambushed in the corridor.

The mother believes money is the reason behind the bullying. She later commented on the YouTube video saying that her son apparently owed the group of learners "protection money".

The Daily Voice reported that the Western Cape Education Department has knowledge of the incident and the school's respective district office is conducting an investigation in to the matter.

Police spokesperson Captain Frederick van Wyk told Parent24 that an assault case was opened, but it currently lies with the senior public prosecutor.

Parent24 has since Monday morning repeatedly contacted both the school and the school's district office for comment, but hasn't received any comment at the time of publishing.

Social media has reacted to her posts. Many stand with her and support her cause, fighting for a safer school environment for all learners.

Meanwhile, others have defended the institution.

The woman later commented on her YouTube post and said these boys have been "beating up children in this school for years" and the "head master has only ever given them detention". She wants more to be done and is requesting parents with any information to contact the Safe Schools programme on 0800 45 46 47 and report bullying.

Is there bullying at your school? Print this questionnaire and give to your pupils for a health check.

Also read: "Parents of bullies should be held accountable too!"

How do you think the school needs to address the behaviour of these learners? What would you do if your child was a bully? Is your child being bullied at school? Email your comments and stories to chatback@parent24.com.

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