In an effort to create a crime-free learning environment, the Waterval police raided the Elim High School two weeks ago.

It had been alleged that the pupils at the school were circulating pornographic videos and pictures of naked people at the school. The police seized more than 300 cell phones during the raid.

The spokesperson of the Waterval police, W/O Kedibone Mabatha, said that the raid was part of their surprise visits to local schools. He added that the visit forms part of the crime-awareness campaign they conduct at various schools every month. "We engage in this kind of activity with the aim of creating a crime-free learning environment," he said.

Mabatha added that they had searched the learners for dangerous weapons, drugs, marijuana and other things that are not allowed at school. “We also spoke to the pupils and warned them about the dangers of vandalizing school property," he said.

Asked about the allegation of pupils´ circulating pornographic videos at the school, Mabatha confirmed that the principal had also ordered them to confiscate all cell phones from the pupils. "We were also told that cell phones were causing problems in classes, preventing pupils from concentrating on their studies," he said.

Mabatha confirmed that more than 300 cell phones had been seized. He said that the phones would be given back to the parents at the end of the year. "We need pupils to concentrate on their studies, so that they can produce good results at end of the year," said Mabatha.

Teachers, who spoke to Mirror on condition of anonymity, confirmed that cell phones were causing problems at the school.