Granny, accomplice caught with school food for hungry kids

The suspects, a 60-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman, were apprehended on Saturday, 12 April 2025, near the school premises with boxes of food items intended for learners.

Among the stolen goods were bulk packs of tinned fish, fresh cream milk, and other perishable products, the MEC said.

MEC Chiloane commended law enforcement officers for their swift action and reiterated the importance of protecting the National School Nutrition Programme.

“We are concerned by the senseless crime which takes away from the good we are trying to achieve through the school nutrition programme and ensuring pupils are fed at schools. We call on communities to safeguard the food supplies meant to nourish their children,” Chiloane said.

The NSNP provides daily nutritious meals to millions of learners across South Africa, targeting food insecurity and enhancing concentration and school attendance.