Suspects arrested for forcing 71-year-old man into initiation school
Police in Limpopo have arrested three suspects, including a traditional healer, for forcing a 71-year-old elderly man to an initiation school at Ga-Mamatsha village in the Capricorn District.
The 71-year-old man was allegedly socialising at his home when a group of people entered the yard, accusing him of interfering with initiation school matters. They assaulted him with sticks and sjamboks.
The victim sustained serious injuries, including a broken hand, and was forcefully taken to the initiation school. He was eventually rescued by the Traditional Affairs authorities a day after he was abducted.
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The suspects, aged 34, 37, and 47, were arrested on Monday, 14 July 2025, following an intensive investigation.
They are expected to appear before the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 15 July 2025. They are facing multiple charges, including assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm [GBH], common assault, and forcing a person to attend an initiation school using duress.
In another incident, a male complainant was informed by relatives that a group of people had gathered at his home.
Upon his arrival, he was allegedly tied with a rope, placed in the back of an open van, and taken to the initiation school against his will.
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A 40-year-old male was reportedly assaulted after a group of individuals forcefully entered his yard and attacked him with sticks and sjamboks, without any explanation.
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe welcomed the arrests and condemned the violent acts.
“While we acknowledge the cultural significance of initiation, it must never be used as a tool for intimidation, violence, or forced participation,” said Lieutenant Hadebe.
“Such criminal behaviour undermines the very values that cultural traditions are meant to uphold. The SAPS will act decisively to protect individuals’ rights and uphold the law,” she added.
