The 206 matriculants who were moved from Masiphumelele by the Western Cape Education Department following unrest in their community, were in good spirits after writing their first two papers, the department said on Tuesday.

The pupils, who attend Masiphumelele High School, were being accommodated at an undisclosed venue after threats were made by protesters, confirmed department spokesperson Jessica Shelver.

“Given the situation, they are doing well,” she said. “They will be accommodated for as long as the violence continues and the children’s parents are happy with the arrangement.”

The matriculants were moved to the venue on Sunday ahead of many of their first exam on Monday.

Shelver said the children were comfortable and were being accommodated at a location “conducive to studying”.

NGOs and retail sponsors have stepped in to make sure the pupils are fed, she added.

Unrest broke out in Masiphumelele on Friday night.

On Tuesday morning, authorities lined Kommetjie Road after a group of residents burnt a container and tyres the night before.

The arrest of community leader Lubabalo Willem in connection with a recent spate of mob justice incidents is understood to be the reason for the unrest.

Willem appeared in the Simon’s Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday. He remains behind bars until his next appearance on Friday.

According to the City of Cape Town, the area is still volatile and authorities remain in the area. News24