Authorities in South Africa have suspended eight students from Milnerton High School in Cape Town after a disturbing video of a violent classroom assault went viral, triggering nationwide outrage.
The footage, reportedly filmed last week, shows a group of boys attacking a fellow student with a belt, a hosepipe, and a hockey stick while others laugh and record the scene.
The 16-year-old victim—who had recently completed cancer treatment—can be heard pleading for the attack to stop.
His mother told local media that her son had “just beaten cancer” before enduring the brutal beating, while his uncle confirmed to broadcaster eNCA that he has been withdrawn from the school for his safety.
The incident sparked protests outside the school on Wednesday, as parents and activists accused the institution of failing to protect its pupils.
Police later dispersed the demonstrators using tear gas and stun grenades after tempers rose.
Amnesty International South Africa described the footage as “deeply disturbing” and called for swift accountability.
The Education Ministry said it is collaborating with the Western Cape Education Department to investigate and enforce disciplinary action against those responsible.
Officials and child rights advocates have also appealed to the public not to circulate the video online, warning that sharing it further traumatizes the victim and breaches the privacy rights of minors involved.
