Cape Town – Police in Mpumalanga have launched an investigation following the discovery of a facility in Evander, near Secunda, where multiple young people were reportedly held and subjected to severe abuse.
The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit is handling the case, with two suspects already in custody.
According to police spokesperson Colonel Jabu Ndubane, one of the victims, a young male, was allegedly taken from his residence on 27 March 2025 and endured harrowing conditions at the facility until he managed to escape on 8 April 2025.
“The victim was reportedly forced to swim in a muddy dam, cover his head in mud, and endure physical assaults with a sjambok and a pick pipe. The victim was deprived of adequate food and hygiene during his ordeal.
#sapsMP Facility uncovered in Evander, two arrested for alleged torture of young people. A case of assault GBH is currently under investigation by the Police, with the #sapsFCS Unit handling the case.
According to a report, one victim was taken from his residence on 27/03, and… pic.twitter.com/KHy5XQJxcM
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) April 10, 2025
“After the matter was brought to the attention of the Police on Tuesday, 08 April 2025, a case was registered then the next day, 09 April 2025, police traced and apprehended the two male suspects, aged 24 and 29, in connection with the case. They are scheduled to appear at the Evander Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 11 April 2025,” Ndubane said.
Disturbingly, authorities believe that many of the victims, the majority of whom are underage, were brought to the facility by their own parents under the guise of disciplinary action. Law enforcement officials are investigating the extent of these allegations and the possible involvement of additional suspects.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has strongly condemned the incident, describing the acts as “inhumane torture.”
He has called for a thorough investigation to ensure that all individuals responsible are brought to justice.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
