Couple arrested after 200 people found at alleged illegal rehab centre in Mpumalanga
The couple was accommodating about 200 people on the property despite not being legally authorised to run such a facility.
Nearly 200 individuals were found at an unregistered rehabilitation facility in Mpumalanga, leading to the arrests of a man and a woman accused of illegally operating the center. The 59-year-old man and 58-year-old woman were apprehended during a joint operation by the Department of Social Development and the South African Police Service (Saps).
The operation, which took place at Waterval B in Siyabuswa on October 15, 2026, was triggered by concerns about the facility's conditions. Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, a police spokesperson, stated that the premises was being operated as a rehabilitation center without the necessary registration authorization. The couple allegedly hosted around 200 people despite lacking legal authorization to run such a facility.
As a result, 14 people required medical attention during the operation. The accused are now facing charges including kidnapping, operating an unregistered treatment center in violation of the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act, and non-compliance with health and safety standards. Police have launched a thorough investigation to uncover the full extent of the alleged offenses.
Authorities warn that additional arrests may occur as they interview witnesses and examine the facility's activities. The Province's Commissioner, Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, praised the Department of Social Development for discovering the facility and assisting the victims. Modise emphasized that the team would ensure justice is served for the rescued individuals.
The suspects are scheduled to appear in the Mdutjana Magistrate's Court in Siyabuswa on October 19, 2026.
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