Five initiates have died in the Eastern Cape since the start of the summer initiation season.
These deaths were recorded in the Buffalo City Metro, OR Tambo District and the Chris Hani District respectively.
One initiate in the Chris Hani District allegedly died by hanging himself.
Law enforcement agencies have arrested 21 individuals linked to illegal activities around initiation customs.
COGTA Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has issued a call for all illegal operators to shutdown immediately, saying as government they will not tolerate the reckless endangerment of young males.
His spokesperson, Pearl Maseko-Binqose elaborates. “Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa warns that illegal initiation schools are a great danger and must be closed immediately. He calls on parents, caregivers, and communities to share the duty of protecting initiates. Oversight committees, police, health services and municipalities are urged to act decisively including unannounced visits. The lives of children are priceless. Every initiate must emerge alive, transformed to embrace manhood.”
Related Video | Eastern Cape Initiation Season | Not all families are rejoicing.
