Arrested youth held in place of safety

A YOUTH arrested after suspected gangsters caused chaos in a Helenvale school on Monday will remain in a place of safety, depending on the court's decision.

The boy, 17, was arrested shortly after a group of six men walked into Gelvandale High School in broad daylight and threatened teachers with a firearm shortly after 8am.

The teachers managed to get the group out of the school, but now fear for their lives after many threats were directed at them during the ordeal.

Police spokesman Warrant Officer Alwin Labans said the arrested youth appeared in the Port Elizabeth Children's Court yesterday on a charge of pointing a firearm. Due to his age he cannot be identified.

The youth will appear in court again soon. As with other minors he is expected to be held at a place of safety until his case is concluded or the court decides on an appropriate punishment.

Meanwhile, a 19-year- old was arrested yesterday in connection with a gang-related shooting in Kobus Road, Gelvandale, on Monday.

The suspect will appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate's Court tomorrow on a charge of attempted murder. – Riaan Marais