Police uncover alleged torture site for youth in Mpumalanga; two suspects arrested

A disturbing case of abuse is unfolding in Mpumalanga, where police have launched an investigation into a facility in Evander, near Secunda, suspected of detaining and abusing young people under the guise of discipline. The discovery was made after one victim managed to escape and report the ordeal to authorities.

According to police, the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit is spearheading the investigation, and two men aged 24 and 29 have already been arrested in connection with the case.

Police spokesperson Colonel Jabu Ndubane confirmed that the case came to light after a young male victim escaped the facility on 8 April. The boy had reportedly been abducted from his home on 27 March and subjected to shocking abuse.

#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

During his captivity, the victim was allegedly forced to swim in a filthy dam, smear mud on his head, and was repeatedly beaten with a sjambok and plastic pipe. Police say he was denied basic food and hygiene throughout the ordeal.

Following the report to police on 8 April, officers swiftly arrested the two suspects the next day. The pair are expected to appear in the Evander Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 11 April 2025.

Authorities now believe this was not an isolated case. Early evidence suggests several other minors may have been brought to the same facility—some reportedly by their own parents—as a form of disciplinary intervention. Police are now expanding the investigation to determine how widespread the abuse was and whether more individuals were involved.

Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi condemned the operation, describing it as a form of “inhumane torture.” He has urged law enforcement to pursue the case with urgency and ensure all those responsible face legal consequences.