SIYABUSWA - Some of the people rescued from an unregistered rehabilitation centre in Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga, have been reunited with their families.
The Department of Social Development says others, including people with injuries and those who appear to be experiencing mental health challenges, have been taken to hospital for medical assistance.
More than 200 people were discovered at the church-affiliated facility, where some were reportedly chained while others were allegedly deprived of food.
READ: No water, no toilets and chained: Over 150 found at unregistered Nkangala rehab facility
According to Thoko Mahlangu from the department, officials were conducting awareness campaigns in the community and surrounding areas when the facility was brought to their attention.
Mahlangu says the department subsequently conducted a fact-finding mission.
“We discovered people were admitted there against their will, the conditions were horrific and a gross violation of human rights,” she said.
Some residents were found chained and had developed sores on their bodies. Certain rooms also lacked adequate lighting and ventilation.
READ: Mpumalanga rehab centre under investigation after inspection uncovers 200 people
“We decided to immediately shut the facility down,” Mahlangu said.
She added that the residents were profiled according to their individual circumstances and needs. The youngest person found at the facility was 11 years old.
Mahlangu said the pastor and his wife were initially reluctant to provide information when officials approached them.
The couple allegedly claimed that they accommodated only 60 people for prayer purposes.
The department and law enforcement authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the establishment and operation of the centre.
The 59-year-old pastor and his wife have been arrested and are expected to appear in court on Monday.