Free State records two deaths, rescues 21 from illegal initiation school
One death was recorded in Botshabelo and another in Bethulie. Police are investigating the cases.
The Free State co-operative governance and traditional affairs department (Cogta) confirmed the illegal initiation school has been closed and the initiates reunited with their families.
'One of the initiates has been taken to hospital for medical attention,' it said.
'In Bethulie, two male initiates received medical attention after they were found with swollen feet. The cause of their condition is still being investigated. In Vrede, Thabo Mofutsanyana district, two cases of missing initiates were reported to the police. The initiates are aged 15 and 27,' said Cogta spokesperson Zimasa Mbewu.
Six criminal cases have been opened with law enforcement agencies in the province.
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