Parents alarmed as Instagram accounts target Mbombela learners
According to Lowvelder, the first account, called Exposing Nelspruit, became active on the evening of July 21, when a Grade 10 learner of Hoërskool Nelspruit came across disturbing content shared about fellow learners.
The account uses Instagram stories to spread rumours and publicly shame learners from various local high schools.
Learners targeted online
It appears to target learners from Hoërskool Nelspruit and Hoërskool Bergvlam in particular, often posting unverified claims about their alleged sexual activity and insulting their character.
A concerned parent, who asked to remain anonymous to protect her child's identity, told Lowvelder: 'I'm afraid my child might decide to take his own life based on lies.'
The group is most active between 17:00 and 21:00, during which time followers submit rumours that are then shared anonymously by the account.
The original account was banned after a wave of reports from followers. However, second and third accounts — called Exposing Nelspruit 2 and Nelspruit se Drama — have since been created.
Schools respond
The targeted schools both shared their views on the matter.
Principal Willie van der Merwe of Hoërskool Nelspruit said: 'The school condemns any form of bullying, victimisation and discrimination of any kind, including on online platforms. The school remains proactive in addressing these challenges through awareness campaigns, partnerships and clear policies that prioritise student protection. We also urge learners and parents to use the current systems and mechanisms to report incidences where the school can support them. The school-based support team is available to provide advice and guidance.'
Principal Deon Visser of Hoërskool Bergvlam added: 'The school condemns any form of unlawful activity and emphasises that such behaviour will not be tolerated. We believe in upholding the law and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals. Bergvlam hopes that the perpetrator(s) will be brought to justice and that the relevant authorities will take the necessary actions to address the situation.'
Legal expert weighs in
Media law specialist Helene Viljoen expressed serious concern about the social media activity and the wider issue of cyberbullying.
'We all have the right to freedom of speech, but it is legally limited,' she said. 'If someone makes allegations without evidence, they are unlawfully defaming someone and could be sued for up to R500 000. Making statements that amount to personal insults and violate someone's dignity constitutes crimen injuria — a crime punishable by law.'
Viljoen also warned that electronic communications may lead to charges of harassment and intimidation.
'Comments must be true and in the public interest before being posted publicly,' she added.
Viljoen urged affected parents to visit the magistrate's court with their children to apply for a protection order, which would allow the SAPS to investigate the matter.
Court orders Meta to co-operate
She highlighted a recent legal development: 'A court recently ordered Meta to grant SAPS access to user data linked to harmful anonymous messages sent via WhatsApp or Instagram. This enables investigations and arrests.'
The order was handed down by the Johannesburg High Court in mid-July, following legal action led by Emma Sadleir of the Digital Law Company.
'If you think anonymity protects you from consequences, you're mistaken,' Viljoen concluded.
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