South African authorities rescued 200 people, some in chains, from a suspected illegal rehabilitation centre in Mpumalanga province. The facility was found to have overcrowded rooms and poor sanitary conditions.
Officials discovered the centre during an operation in the north-eastern part of the country. The facility, operated from a church in Mpumalanga province, was found to have 'gross inhuman conditions,' with some patients suffering from sores all over their bodies and others chained together. A pastor and his wife have been arrested and charged with kidnapping. During the raid, authorities found 200 individuals, including two minors, being held in overcrowded rooms without access to functioning bathrooms or running water. The couple initially claimed they were housing only 60 people, but the inspection revealed more than three times that number, including over 30 women. The group, mostly believed to be drug addicts, had been living in these conditions for an extended period.
Authorities previously reported over 100 illegal rehabilitation centres operating in South Africa, mostly in Gauteng province. The rescued individuals included two minors, with some having been held for an extended period. One individual described being chained as a common practice, though he credited the facility with helping him overcome addiction. Another person, who was not named, said his experience with the facility left him needing help mentally. The couple running the facility could face additional charges as the investigation continues.
Why it matters
The rescue highlights the ongoing issue of illegal rehabilitation centres in South Africa, which have been linked to poor treatment and abuse of vulnerable individuals.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Authorities may add more charges against the pastor and his wife, and further investigations into other suspected illegal facilities are expected.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.