Teachers are struggling to cope with monitoring children who are vaping, and addressing disciplinary issues.
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COMMUNITY leaders in Phoenix are calling for a clampdown on spaza shops and tuckshops selling vape products and cigarettes to minors following reports of pupils as young as 13 vaping in school toilets.
“Our children are being targeted. This is illegal under South African law. The Tobacco Products Control Act makes it a crime to sell any tobacco or vape product to anyone under 18.
“If caught, the perpetrators could face a fine of up to R1 million or 10 years in jail. Yet there unregistered spaza shops and tuckshops near schools sell these products to children in school uniform,” Berlinda Belcher, a community activist.
She expressed concern about the health risks associated with children using harmful nicotine products.
“Vapes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and damages developing brains. We found that children as young as 13 are vaping in the school toilets.
“Teachers are struggling to cope with monitoring them and addressing disciplinary issues. Once addicted, many move on to stronger substances. We have seen it. We therefore call for a clampdown before the problem spirals out of control."
She reported her concerns formally to the Phoenix police station and metro police, and demanded compliance inspections of shops near schools.
Val Pillay, spokesperson for the Phoenix Community Policing Forum (CPF), said they fully supported the community-led initiative.
“We are pleased that the community has stood up to address the illegal sale of cigarettes and vaping products to minors, which seriously violates the Tobacco Products Control Act. It also poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of our youth."
Pillay said while the police were notified about it, they could not address the issue alone.
“Parents must take an active role in guiding and educating their children about the dangers of vaping and smoking. Open conversations at home are critical for preventing substance use. Schools are encouraged to strengthen awareness programmes and enforce disciplinary measures where necessary, while also supporting pupils through education and counselling."
She said local businesses must comply with the law and act responsibly by refusing sales to minors.
"Community members are urged to report any illegal activity and work together to protect our children. This is not just a policing matter, it is a community responsibility."