Teacher 'sent' explicit messages to pupil (12) on TikTok

A PRIMARY school teacher is facing charges of child grooming after he allegedly sent explicit messages to a 12-year-old pupil on TikTok.

- NADIA KHAN

Muzi Mahlambi, spokesperson for the KZN Department of Education, confirmed yesterday (Tuesday) that the teacher was previously involved in a similar incident at another school and had been suspended.

Mahlambi said the current matter had been reported to the principal on April 5.

"It was also reported to the circuit manager on the same day, who then instituted an investigation. The findings and recommendations are now on the desk of the department's head, for him to apply his mind and take the appropriate actions. The department is very disappointed and frowns at such alleged behaviour by teachers in our schools."

On Tuesday morning, parents and concerned community members gathered outside Pitlochry Primary School in Westville, demanding answers including why the teacher had not been arrested to date.

Colonel Robert Netshiunda, a provincial police spokesperson, confirmed Sydenham SAPS was investigating a case of child grooming, following reports that a man had allegedly sent explicit messages to a 12-year-old girl.

Some of the parents, who spoke to the POST, said they were "horrified" after hearing about the alleged incident on the television news on Monday night.

It was alleged that the teacher had sent messages to the Grade 7 pupil on the social media platform, TikTok, in early April.

In the message, he allegedly asked her, "Do you use one finger or two?", followed by "I asked which finger you use on yourself...".

In her alleged response, the pupil said: "You're so dirty minded. I don't use any finger."

The teacher allegedly went on to say that she should not tell anyone about the messages.

"Listen, please promise me you won't tell anybody, and I mean NOBODY that you chat to me," the message read.