Collaborative efforts between the North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) , the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC) and the police have led to the closure of 17 illegal initiation schools across the province.
This follows an oversight visit conducted by the PICC since the start of the winter season.
According to the Committee Chairperson, Kgosi Godfrey Ramosetlho Gasebone, over 100 initiates were rescued during the operation.
“Other initiates were rescued from illegal schools in Moretele Motla, Makapanstad, Kromkuil, Klipgat, Kgabalatsane, Hebron, Letlhabile, Tigane, Goedgeyonden, Mahikeng, Mareetsane, Coligny, Boikhutso, Makouspan and Madibogo which were shut down.
The rescued initiates were taken to neighbouring clinics and hospitals for further check-ups and assistance,” said Kgosi Gasebone.
He added that the non-compliance of initiation schools poses health risks and more often result in the deaths of initiates.
Criminal cases have been opened against the school principals and Kgosi Gasebone said they are optimistic that the culprits will face the full might of the law for their actions.
