This follows a spate of incidents during the current initiation season, including deaths, injuries, and criminal investigations linked to “illegal” initiation schools in the Free State. 

The initiation season officially commenced on 27 June and will run until 18 July, in alignment with the provincial school holidays. However, the season has already been marred by tragedy. 

Two initiates died in Botshabelo (Mangaung) and Bethulie (Xhariep District), with police confirming investigations into the causes of death. In another incident under investigation, two male initiates received medical treatment after being discovered with swollen feet. 

Meanwhile, in Vrede (Thabo Mofutsanyana District), two initiates aged between 15 and 27 have been reported missing, and police have launched inquiries into their disappearances.

The province recorded 26 initiate deaths last year, the second-highest number nationally. Authorities are now stepping up efforts to curb illegal initiation schools, which they identify as a major contributor to the crisis.

‘Injuries and deaths stem from illegal and unregulated schools’

“A collaborative effort between the community, the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC), and the police has led to the rescue of 21 initiates from an illegal initiation school in Theunissen. The school has since been closed, and the initiates have been reunited with their families. 

One initiate was hospitalised for medical attention. So far, six criminal cases have been opened with law enforcement agencies in the province. 

Four arrests were made in Theunissen, including a school principal and three caregivers,” said Zimasa Mbewu, spokesperson for the Free State Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA). Mbewu emphasised that many injuries and deaths reported during the initiation season stem from illegal and unregulated schools operating outside the legal framework.

The Customary Initiation Act (No. 2 of 2021) requires that all initiation schools be registered with the PICC at least three months before the season begins. Failure to comply renders the school illegal.

“Parents and guardians must verify that the initiation schools where their children are enrolled are registered with the PICC and comply with the Customary Initiation Act,” Mbewu added. She reiterated that any unregistered school will be deemed illegal and face law enforcement action.

The public is urged to report suspected illegal initiation schools or irregularities to Mr. Thabo Lehabe, 079 210 5935, or Mr. Daniel Nteo, 063 834 7523

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh