PIGG’S PEAK – Two Form V pupils from Peak Central High School are recovering from serious injuries after they were allegedly assaulted by police officers during an interrogation at the Pigg’s Peak Police Station earlier this month.

The incident, which reportedly took place on October 3, 2025, stemmed from a July theft case involving a missing cellphone belonging to another pupil.

According to a teacher from the school, the alleged assault came to light after she noticed one of the boys limping. Upon questioning him, the pupil revealed that he and another classmate had been taken to the police station, where they were allegedly beaten while being questioned about the stolen phone.

The pupil is said to have admitted to stealing the phone but told police it was later stolen again after he placed it in a bag. The teacher believes police may have doubted this explanation, leading to the alleged assault.

“I went to the police station on the same day to ask why they assaulted the pupil, but they denied it,” the teacher said. “I requested a medical form and took him to hospital, where doctors confirmed he had a leg fracture and placed it in a cast.”

The teacher and the school’s head teacher, Xolisile Nhleko, reported the medical findings to the police, but were allegedly told “there was nothing they could assist with.” The case has since been referred to the police legal department, according to the school.

“We will not hide this”

Head Teacher Nhleko expressed her frustration over the incident, revealing that the injured pupil now has to be carried to the examination rooms due to his condition.

“He was preparing for his final examinations, but now he is in pain and frequently visits the hospital. The family is also struggling to pay medical bills,” she said.

Nhleko added that despite some family members being reluctant to open a case against the police, the school would not conceal the matter.

“We cannot allow such a wrong thing to happen and be hidden as tibi tendlu (family secrets). This is a child’s future being destroyed,” she said.

The teacher further alleged that during the assault, officers forced the pupils to lie on a bench, handcuffed them with waist chains, and took turns beating them.

It was also alleged that the second pupil was spared more severe injuries because his parents are both head teachers at schools in the area.

Police Response

When reached for comment, Deputy Police Information and Communications Officer Assistant Nosipho Mnguni confirmed that the incident had been reported and that investigations were underway.

“We can confirm that the matter has been reported and that investigations have been launched to establish the facts,” Mnguni said.