Sons Rescued from Illegal Initiation School

Parents of two boys recently rescued from a bogus initiation school near Lonely Park in Mahikeng have shared their emotional turmoil and concern over their children’s physical and mental state.

The boys were among 25 initiates rescued after villagers tipped off authorities about the illegal operation. The children had been missing for two weeks, sparking panic among families.

Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, one mother said she couldn’t eat for days, fearing the worst.

“When I heard his voice over the phone, I broke down. I wasn’t even sure if it was really him speaking,” she said, tearfully.

Another parent described the heartbreaking condition of her 16-year-old son.

“He can’t walk or speak properly. His feet are in pain—they told us they had to walk barefoot in the bush,” she said.

Parents say their children are reluctant to talk about what happened at the camp, deepening fears about the trauma they experienced. Some have already committed to seeking psychological help for their sons.

“The boy I see now is not the same child I raised,” another mother said through tears.

Officials from the North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) confirmed that the individual operating the school had been moving between remote locations to avoid detection. A manhunt is now underway for him and several others believed to be involved.

Disturbingly, one of the boys was reportedly circumcised at a hospital in 2023, raising serious questions about why he was targeted again.

COGTA spokesperson Thebeetsile Keamediste stated that since the beginning of the winter initiation season, a total of 115 initiates have been rescued across the province.

“We will continue monitoring initiation schools across the North West to ensure compliance with the Customary Initiation Act of 2021,” he said.