Following their arrest last week, a couple accused of operating an illegal rehabilitation centre in Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga, has been granted bail of R1,000 each.
Paulina Sepato (58) and Sakia Thabo Sepato (59) appeared in the Mdutjana Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 19 October 2026.
As previously reported, the couple was arrested on Friday, 16 October, following an inspection at a property in Waterval B, where approximately 200 people were allegedly being accommodated at an unregistered rehabilitation facility.
During the operation, 14 people required medical treatment.
The couple faces charges including kidnapping, operating an unregistered treatment centre and failing to comply with applicable health and safety regulations.
Case Against Third Suspect Withdrawn
In the latest court update, police confirmed that the case against a third suspect had been withdrawn and that the man did not appear in court.
Both accused are expected to return to court on 26 November 2026.
Police previously indicated that investigations were ongoing and that additional charges could be considered.