Latest news with #HoërskoolBergvlam
The Citizen
4 days ago
- The Citizen
Parents alarmed as Instagram accounts target Mbombela learners
The recent activation of a number of Instagram accounts has left parents fearing for their children's well-being and lives. 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. Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal. Read original story on
The Citizen
29-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Lowveld training centre gears up bikers for safer rides
The Lowveld is known for its scenic motorbike routes, particularly in the Sabie area and along the Long Tom Pass – a road that has proven deadly for some reckless bikers. Since its establishment in 2023, Lowveld Motorcycle Training CC has focused on equipping bikers with the skills needed to ride safely and remain aware of their surroundings. ALSO READ: Sabie Classic tests mountain bikers' mettle The organisation's two founders, Johan du Plessis and Francois Niehof, launched the training centre with a mission to reduce the number of devastating motorcycle accidents in and around the Lowveld. 'You can get a bike learner's permit at the age of 16 and ride a bike with a 125CC engine without ever doing a riding test, which is not safe at all,' Du Plessis said. Learners can ride for a full year on this permit – a major contributing factor to bike accidents in South Africa. 'To ride a motorbike you need to possess certain skills, like good balance and hand-eye co-ordination. If you don't have these skills you shouldn't be riding,' he explained. Among other things, they teach bikers basic safety principles, such as wearing proper protective clothing and using suitable equipment. 'We dress for the slide, not the ride,' Du Plessis added. Other training areas they focus on are carrying a passenger, riding in a group, and how to safely execute an emergency brake or turn. Du Plessis also believes in teaching road awareness from a young age. 'Look twice for bikes,' he tells schoolchildren, aiming to instil safe habits early. The team has delivered voluntary talks at schools such as Hoërskool Bergvlam and Lowveld High to educate students about bike safety. ALSO READ: Unlucky incident unveils hidden quad bike in Mbombela, possibly stolen They recently provided training for 78 Checkers Sixty60 drivers from Mbombela, Hazyview and White River. The focus was on teaching safe riding techniques and testing to ensure they are fit to ride. Checkers has confirmed that since starting the training in May 2025, there have been no accidents involving their riders. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
