Is my child allowed to report bullying to SAPS? 

Thabazimbi – To confirm whether bullying could be reported to the South African Police Services (SAPS), Platinum Bushvelder reached out to police spokesperson colonel Adele Myburgh on Tuesday 5 September 2023. According to Myburgh: “Cases of bullying can be reported to SAPS for investigation, if the act is considered a criminal offence, for example, assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm, common assault, intentional damage to property, and the wilful injury to someone’s dignity (crimen injuria). Children under the age of 18 can report to SAPS with the assistance of a legal guardian. Of course, bullying should be reported to the school, but severe cases may be reported to SAPS for investigation. SAPS will notify a social worker to assist with the investigation, and further measures will be taken according to the specifics of each individual case”.