Two Arrested Over Alleged Abuse of Minors at Discipline Camp in Mpumalanga

Two men have been taken into custody in connection with the alleged abuse and torture of minors at a so-called disciplinary camp in Secunda, Mpumalanga.

The suspects, aged 29 and 24, were arrested on Tuesday, April 8, according to police.

Authorities revealed that several of the victims were underage, and in many cases, had been brought to the facility by their own parents in an apparent attempt to correct behavioral issues.

In a statement, South Africa’s Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster expressed serious concern about the reported abuse.
“The victims, most of whom are children, were allegedly subjected to severe mistreatment,” the statement read. “What is especially troubling is that some were taken to the facility by their guardians under the belief that it was a legitimate disciplinary programme.”

The camp, located in the Evander area, is now at the center of a criminal investigation led by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. A case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm has been opened.

One of the victims, reportedly abducted from his home on March 27, allegedly endured physical and psychological abuse for nearly two weeks before managing to escape on April 8.

According to initial reports, the teenager was forced to swim in a dirty dam, rub mud over his head, and was repeatedly beaten with a sjambok and a metal pipe. He also claimed he was deprived of food and basic hygiene during his detention at the facility.

The accused appeared before the Evander Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, April 11. The case was postponed to April 16 to allow for a formal bail hearing. Both suspects remain in police custody.

Authorities have not ruled out further arrests as the investigation continues.

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