Warwick Secondary School was a victim of gang violence.

Seventeen-year-old Rajaee Shakir was allegedly beaten up at Hamilton bus terminal last week.

Up to 15 youths are said to have ripped his clothes, pulled his hair, and burned him with a cigarette.

Last night Education Minister the Hon. Gerald Simons said he was disturbed by the complaint by the youngster's father.

Today he plans to speak to the father, Mr. Cromwell Shakir.

"My first reaction to the complaint was great concern for the boy in question, and his parents,'' he said. "I spoke briefly to the father today, but want to find out more about the incident today, and reflect on what he says.'' Mr. Simons said he would also be contacting the Police, and Transport Minister the Hon. Ralph Marshall.

"Dealing with discipline is a continuing challenge,'' he added.

Police last night were unable to provide details of the incident before going to Press.

Community and Cultural Affairs Minister the Hon. Leonard Gibbons said he was unaware of any gang violence in Bermuda.

"I think there is bullying, but that was the same when I was a kid,'' he added.

Mr. Marshall last night was unable to throw any light on the incident.

He added he was aware of previous problems at the Washington Street terminal.

Moves had been taken to combat them, including visits by Public Transport Department representatives to local schools, teaching youngsters about etiquette, said Mr. Marshall.

Earlier this year, Police reinforcements were called to the terminal as two officers, one female, were in danger of being overpowered by troublemakers.

Three youngsters were arrested.

Trouble also flared at the depot in October and December last year.

The disturbances brought on demands for action from worried shopkeepers who claimed their business was being hit. Police responded by stepping up afternoon patrols in the area while children waited for buses to take them home.

The Hon. Gerald Simons.