At least six schools operating illegally were shut down by police last week as the leaders of the schools did not heed the call made by police and the Health Department.
Police burned down five initiation schools at the Rietkuil Farm in the Barrage area. At least six girls and 12 boys were reunited with their parents after police helped them to escape.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mofokatsane said the owners of the schools had failed to comply with government regulations. The office of the Emfuleni Local Municipality MMC for Public Safety, Councillor Zaza Raikane warned the public about the schools and suspended all initiations last month.
Spienaar Mofokeng, regional leader of initiation schools, said seven boys, including one who suffers fits, were rescued from a farm near Vereeniging. “Whether registered or illegal operations, we have agreed that no initiation schools should operate this year,” said Mofokeng.
Written by Lazarus Dithagiso
