A couple was arrested in Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga on Friday, 16 October, following the discovery of approximately 200 people allegedly being kept at an unregistered rehabilitation centre in Waterval B.
According to Mpumalanga SAPS, officials from the Department of Social Development requested police assistance during an inspection of the premises on Thursday, 15 October.
Fourteen people were taken for medical treatment that evening, while the couple was taken in for questioning. The man, aged 59, and woman, aged 58, were arrested the following morning.
Police said the suspects face charges of kidnapping, operating an unregistered treatment centre and failing to comply with applicable health and safety standards.
A team of detectives and specialised units has been assembled to investigate. Police said further arrests and additional charges remain possible.
The couple is expected to appear in the Mdutjana Magistrate’s Court in Siyabuswa on Monday, 19 October.