A couple has been arrested in Mpumalanga after about 200 people were allegedly found at an unregistered rehabilitation centre in Waterval B, Siyabuswa. Image: SAPS
Arrested
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South Africa
Mpumalanga couple arrested after 200 people found at alleged illegal rehab centre
A 59-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman have been arrested in Siyabuswa after about 200 people were allegedly found at an unregistered rehabilitation facility. Police say 14 people were taken for medical treatment during the operation.
A couple has been arrested in Mpumalanga after about 200 people were allegedly found at an unregistered rehabilitation centre in Waterval B, Siyabuswa.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested the man, 59, and woman, 58, on Friday morning, 16 October, following an operation involving the Department of Social Development and police.
According to SAPS, the operation began on Thursday, 15 October, when officials from the Department of Social Development in the Nkangala District were conducting inspections targeting illegal rehabilitation centres.
The officials visited the premises and requested police assistance after discovering that it was allegedly operating as a rehabilitation facility without the required registration and authorisation.
Police said approximately 200 people were being accommodated on the property. During the operation, 14 people were taken for medical treatment, while the couple was taken in for questioning.
The suspects are facing charges of kidnapping, operating an unregistered treatment centre in contravention of section 19 of the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act 70 of 2008, and failing to comply with applicable health and safety standards under environmental health by-laws and the National Health Act.
A team of experienced detectives and specialised police units was assembled under the leadership of Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise to investigate the matter.
Police said further arrests could not be ruled out as investigations continue. Additional charges may also be added depending on the outcome of the investigation.
The couple is expected to appear in the Mdutjana Magistrate’s Court in Siyabuswa on Monday, 19 October.
Modise commended officials from the Department of Social Development and Environmental Health for their contribution to safeguarding the welfare of those found at the facility. She also praised police members for the arrests and said the investigation would continue to ensure that justice is served.
