Extortion has no place in schools, says WCED after Philippi school incident

CAPE TOWN - The Western Cape Education Department says extortion has no place in schools and teaching and learning cannot be disrupted by criminals.
 
Police visibility has been increased at the Zanemfundo Primary School in Philippi, following reports that staff members were being targeted by criminals demanding protection money.
 
Teachers are being escorted by police officers before and after school.

The Western Cape Education Department's Bronagh Hammond said that they were thankful for the support received from police and a security company deployed following the extortion threats.
 
"It is alleged that a group of males visited the school on the 28th of February, demanding that the school pays protection fees. Sadly, as a result of this intimidation and threats, schooling was disrupted on the Monday following the incident. The school has since been operational, with teaching and learning taking place."
 
Hammond said the situation was unacceptable and would not be tolerated.
 
"We cannot allow a small group of individuals to unlawfully threaten our teachers and schools. Our schools do not pay protection fees and we will not accede to such demands or threats made by any individual or group."
 
A community leader believes the extortionists are from outside the Philippi community.