Police and Social Development officials found about 200 people at an alleged illegal rehab centre in Waterval B, Siyabuswa. Image credit SAPS
Police have arrested a couple after officials found about 200 people at an alleged illegal rehab centre in Waterval B, Siyabuswa, in Mpumalanga. The man, 59, and the woman, 58, face charges that include kidnapping.
The discovery happened during an inspection on Thursday. Officials from the Department of Social Development in the Nkangala District were checking for illegal rehabilitation centres in the area. When they arrived at the property, they asked police for help. Police then arrested the couple on Friday morning.
During the operation, officials sent 14 people for medical treatment. According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, early investigations suggest the couple ran the property as a rehabilitation centre without registering it.
What officials found at the illegal rehab centre
Local media reported that the people on the property included children and elderly people, living in crowded rooms. Some reports also claimed that some of them were chained and denied food. However, police have not confirmed these claims, and they say they are still investigating the conditions at the centre.
According to Mdhluli, many of the people came from townships in Johannesburg and Rustenburg. However, he said police are still verifying this information.
The couple faces three sets of charges. First, they face kidnapping charges. Second, police accuse them of running an unregistered treatment centre, in breach of the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act. Third, they face charges of failing to meet health and safety standards under the National Health Act and local by laws. Police say they may add more charges as the investigation continues.
The pair is expected to appear in the Mdutjana Magistrate’s Court in Siyabuswa on Monday, 19 October.
Mpumalanga police commissioner Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise has put together a team of experienced detectives and specialised units to handle the case. Police say they cannot rule out more arrests. Modise also praised officials from Social Development and environmental health for their role in the operation.
Under South African law, anyone who runs a treatment centre for substance abuse must register it with the Department of Social Development. Registered centres must meet minimum standards for care, staff and safety. These rules aim to protect vulnerable people, who often arrive at rehab centres at their lowest point.
However, private rehab care can cost tens of thousands of rand, and many families cannot afford it. As a result, some desperate families turn to cheaper, unregistered centres in the hope of saving a loved one from addiction. Experts have long warned that these centres can put people at serious risk.
Meanwhile, commentary across social media platforms has reacted with shock and anger. Many users have called for the harshest possible punishment if the allegations are proven. Others have urged government to make proper rehab care more affordable, so that families do not feel forced to choose unsafe options.