Sixty-four initiates were rescued in an operation that began last week. They included four from Dr Kenneth Kaunda, 15 from Ngaka Modiri Molema, and 35 from Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, said North West Cogta spokesperson Thebeetsile Keameditse.

Cogta MEC Oageng Molapisi applauded the PICC for its swift and coordinated response, emphasising the province’s firm stance against illegal operations. “Our PICC members acted with precision and urgency.

“We applaud their proactive approach in ensuring the safety of our initiates. We will leave no stone unturned in dealing decisively with unregistered and illegal initiation schools in the province.”

He called on communities and parents to be vigilant and report suspicious initiation activities without hesitation. “The PICC and the department have embarked on campaigns to make our people aware of the Customary Initiation Act and processes to follow to register the initiation school and comply.

“(The) time for complacency is over. We are going to shut down all illegal schools and safeguard the lives of our young people. If you want to operate an initiation, you must comply.”

‘All initiation schools and practitioners must comply with regulations’

During the launch of the safe customary initiation awareness campaign at the premier’s auditorium in the OR Tambo Building, Bloemfontein, in June, minister Velenkosini Hlabisa highlighted that illegal initiation schools remain a major concern, but even some legal schools are failing to meet safety requirements.

The primary causes of fatalities and injuries were outlined as follows:

• Unregistered schools: many operate without healthcare support;
• Unqualified practitioners: violations of the Customary Initiation Act;
• Neglect of basic needs: insufficient clean water, sanitation, and food;
• Medical issues: untreated infections, dehydration, excessive bleeding, lack of support for chronic medication; and
• Abuse: reports of excessive beatings and physical punishment.

Authorities stressed that all initiation schools and practitioners must comply with regulations. Noncompliance will result in immediate closure and arrests, with regular inspections and medical check-ups already being strengthened.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh