Five Bogus Traditional Surgeons Arrested in Eastern Cape

ZWELITSHA – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape has intensified its efforts to improve policing at traditional initiation schools across the province.

According to South African Police Service, these efforts have led to the arrest of five bogus traditional surgeons since the start of the summer initiation season. The suspects, aged between 23 and 35, are currently in custody, with eight criminal cases under investigation.

Task teams in all eight districts, including members from Visible Policing, Detectives, and stakeholders from the Department of Health, COGTA, and NGOs, have been actively monitoring initiation schools. They ensure compliance with laws related to traditional male circumcision. Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene, emphasized the importance of parental involvement in the initiation process, warning that non-compliance could lead to prosecution.