UPDATED: SKOOL KAP DEURE TOE

THE Western Cape Education Department (WCED) on Thursday informed the Daily Voice that Steenberg High School did not dismiss their learners early on 12 August after all. 

The school did send out a statement on the day saying that due to the ongoing violence in the area they would close early as reported by the Daily Voice on the day and printed on Wednesday, 13 August. 

The statement read: “Due to recent incidents of gun violence in the vicinity of our school, and in the interest of the safety and well-being of our learners and staff, the school will be closing early today at 2pm.

“We kindly request that all parents and guardians make the necessary arrangements to collect learners promptly at this time. The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure everyone’s safety.”

The initial decision came after multiple shots were fired in the area in Grens Street, Quarrier Street, Cradock Road and Flute Street on Monday.

The gun violence escalated in the evening after a 21-year-old male sustained multiple gunshot wounds in Orchestra Street.

However, according to the WCED, the school later retracted the statement, with a spokesperson telling the Daily Voice: “The school did not close early. 

“They initially sent out a message on Tuesday about early closure, but then retracted it and the school closed at the normal time. The school has been operating normally this week.”

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi confirmed that gang violence had escalated in the area, culminating in the shooting on Monday night. 

He added that a case of attempted murder is being investigated.

He reported: “Steenberg police responded to a complaint on Monday, 11 August 2025. Upon their arrival in Orchestra Street at about 9.30pm they found a man who sustained multiple gunshot wounds. 

"The 21-year-old man was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The unknown suspects fled the scene and they are yet to be arrested. The motive for this attack is believed to be gang related.”

Steenberg Community Policing Forum (CPF) Chairperson Nicola Small told the Daily Voice that they are aware of the incident involving the 21-year-old.

Small says: “It is believed to be gang related. We have no other information to share with the public at this time.

“The CPF asks community members to please come forward with any information that will assist the SAPS to bring the perpetrators to book.”

Sibelius High School which is ommiedraai from Steenberg also issued a statement on Monday saying they are aware of the unrest in the community and are in contact with cops should the matter escalate.

The school said: “Please be assured that your child's safety is our top priority. We kindly request that you remain calm and avoid unnecessary panic. We will keep you updated and informed as necessary and kindly ask you to do the same.”