The learners from Bedfordview High, Kensington High School, Queens High School and Phoenix College, were arrested after a video surfaced showing the group of girls attacking the victim went viral on social media.

The department says the seven accused have been suspended and are expected to make their second appearance at the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court on Wednesday. They each face a charge of common assault. The Department's Spokesperson, Steve Mabona says psycho-social support is being provided to the victim and the perpetrators.

“We have started with the process of supporting the victim and we can confirm that she is now back at school, because we started with that psycho-social support. But also, we cannot ignore the perpetrators. Because we also need to go closer to them and give the necessary support. These are children and we a developmental institution. We don't focus on curriculum only, we also assist in terms of nurturing these children,” Mabona said.

--SABC--