Dept issues warning against fake rehab centres in Polokwane
Reports suggest numerous private rehabilitation centres exploit recovering addicts by extending their treatment duration unnecessarily and operate without the required permits.
POLOKWANE – Concern over the proliferation of fake drug treatment centres in Polokwane and surrounding areas, established for financial gain, has prompted the Department of Social Development to issue a stern warning to affected parties.
This reaction follows reports of numerous private rehabilitation centres exploiting recovering addicts by extending their treatment duration unnecessarily and operating without the required permits.
Provincial coordinator for the Prevention of Substance Abuse, Molatelo Mphasha, highlighted the alarming trend, stating, “several private rehabilitation centres have become a thorn in the flesh as they tend to keep recovering addicts longer than they should. Treatment usually lasts for 12 weeks or three months, anything beyond that raises uncertainty. Some illegal treatment centres prolong treatment up to nine months or more because they use the facilities to generate an income.”
Mphasha clarified that such entities should operate as non-profit organisations and must be registered in accordance with the Treatment for Substance Abuse Act No 70 of 2008.
Her comments come in the wake of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed on June 26, which promotes a pledge to stay away from drugs for a healthier and better future.
She urged affected individuals and families to verify the legitimacy of rehabilitation facilities.
“Check with the department if the rehabilitation facility you would like to use abides by the rules. All social workers attached to the department are aware of admission processes and are available across municipal areas of the province,” Mphasha advised.
The Department of Social Development’s proactive stance aims to protect vulnerable individuals from being exploited by unscrupulous operators and to ensure that genuine, effective treatment is accessible to those in need.
By emphasising the importance of adhering to legal standards, the department hopes to curtail the activities of illegal centres and provide a safer, more supportive environment for recovering addicts.
