The police in Limpopo have arrested three suspects, including a traditional healer, in connection with a series of incidents in which victims were allegedly assaulted and forcefully taken to an initiation school against their will.
Although the incidents occurred separately, they all happened on the same day, July 6, at the Mamatsha village, Ga-Molepo, outside Polokwane in the Capricorn district.
The suspects, aged between 34 and 37, were arrested on Monday following an intensive police investigation.
The suspects face multiple charges, including assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, and forcing a person to attend an initiation school using duress.
They appeared before the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, and the case was postponed to July 21. They have been remanded back in custody.
Attacked with sticks and sjamboks
In the first incident, a 71-year-old man was allegedly socialising at his home when a group of people entered the yard, accused him of interfering with initiation school matters, and assaulted him with sticks and sjamboks.
The victim sustained serious injuries, including a broken hand, and was forcefully taken to the initiation school.
In the second incident, a male complainant was informed by relatives that a group of people had gathered at his home.
Upon arrival, he was allegedly tied with a rope, placed at the back of a van, and taken to the initiation school against his will.
In the third incident, 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.
Police commit to uphold the law
Provincial police 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 Hadebe.
“Such criminal behaviour undermines the very values that cultural traditions are meant to uphold.
“The SAPS [SA Police Service] will act decisively to protect individuals’ rights and uphold the law.”
