Gauteng schools on high alert over new ‘oil spice’ drug

The Gauteng Education Department has launched investigations at several schools in the province following the discovery of a suspected new drug that learners allegedly refer to as “oil spice”.

The substance is reportedly being used by some learners to get high, raising concerns about the availability of potentially harmful substances in and around schools.

Investigations under way

Gauteng Education spokesperson Onwabile Lubhelwana said investigations were under way following reports from schools, with authorities working to establish what the substance contains and how it is being distributed.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has taken a sample of the suspected drug for testing.

Lubhelwana said the substance was discovered in communities around the Sedibeng area, where learners allegedly obtain a residue that they believe produces a high.

“So you go to the communities around the Sedibeng area, you get some kind of residue which apparently makes them a bit higher,” he said.

He added that there were also allegations that the substance could cause users to behave differently.

“But it has been alleged that it makes them behave in various ways. I mean, in a different way,” Lubhelwana said.

🚨 #SchoolSafetyGP | Today’s SAPS-led School Safety Search & Seizure Operation began at Phandimfundo Secondary School in Etwatwa, Ekurhuleni.

MEC @LebogangMaile1 is on the ground in Daveyton alongside law enforcement as searches get underway to strengthen safety in our schools.… pic.twitter.com/Ac9oYlxOlo

— Gauteng Department of Education (@EducationGP1) September 9, 2026

SAPS testing substance

Authorities are now attempting to determine exactly what the substance is made of.

Lubhelwana said SAPS had taken the residue for further analysis as part of the investigation.

“SAPS was able to take that kind of oil residue and test it,” he said.

He suggested that the substance appeared to be associated with a plastic product, describing it as being similar to “ice” or flavoured ice.

The Gauteng Education Department has not yet confirmed the precise chemical composition of the substance or its potential health effects.

Working with law enforcement

The investigation is expected to shed more light on whether the substance is a new form of illicit drug, how it is being produced or obtained, and the extent to which it may be circulating among learners.

The department is working with law enforcement as authorities seek to establish the source and distribution network.

The reports have also highlighted concerns around substance abuse among schoolchildren and the challenges faced by schools in preventing drugs and other potentially harmful substances from reaching learners.

Further information is expected once SAPS testing and the departmental investigations have been completed.