Authorities have shut down an illegal initiation school in Jan Kempdorp after discovering nine underage children, including two girls, at the site.
The Northern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) said the intervention followed a tip-off received on Friday. The Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC) investigated and confirmed that the school was operating unlawfully.
Officials found two girls aged 12 and seven boys aged between 15 and 17. Three of the boys had already undergone circumcision and were taken to hospital for medical examinations.
The remaining children are being cared for while their parents or guardians are contacted.
Authorities immediately closed the school and opened a criminal case against its owner.
CoGHSTA condemned the operation of illegal initiation schools, warning that they place the lives and safety of initiates at risk. The department urged communities, parents and traditional leaders to report any suspected illegal initiation activities.
Investigations are continuing.
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