SAPS seeks public assistance to locate Cape Town teacher wanted for sexual offence case

Riverside College in Burgundy Estate says it has offered support services for parents or children who may feel unsettled following the news that a former staff member is wanted for a sexual offences case.

Police are still seeking assistance from the public in tracing Adam Edwards, wanted for a sexual offences case which was registered at Bothasig SAPS in August last year.

Last week, the Provincial Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit called on the public’s help in seeking Edwards after a warrant of arrest was issued by the court.

Yesterday, SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg, said there were no new developments and that the investigation remains ongoing.

Edwards was previously employed as a teacher at Riverside College.

The school’s principal, Carlien Ellis, in a statement to parents and guardians on Friday, said: “It has come to our attention that a former member of staff at Riverside College is alleged to have been involved in a non-contact criminal offence. Please be assured that this individual is no longer employed at the school.

“From our own internal investigation, we can confirm that this matter does not involve a contact crime. The allegations relate to the alleged possession of intimate personal imagery,” Ellis said.

She said that the college has been working with leading specialists to strengthen their policies on cell phone use and cybersafety, and that “recent events have highlighted just how important this is”.

“Riverside College remains committed to building one of the safest digital environments for children. While we are a cellphone-free school, online safety also begins at home. We encourage parents to maintain oversight of their children's online activity and to partner with us in reinforcing safe and respectful digital behaviour.

“As a school, we continue to cooperate fully with the South African Police Service and provide any assistance required to support their investigation. We also kindly request that parents and learners refrain from speculation or the spreading of unverified information,” Ellis said.

“Doing so helps protect all involved and ensures that the matter can be dealt with fairly and appropriately by the authorities. The safety and well-being of our learners remain our highest priority.

“We are committed to keeping our school environment secure and to supporting our learners, staff, and families during this time,” she said.

SAPS urged anyone with any information on the whereabouts of Edwards to contact investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Nomabandla Jokazi, on 082 827 2048 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.