A South African pastor and his wife have been arrested on kidnapping charges after more than 200 people, including children, were discovered at an allegedly illegal rehabilitation centre in Mpumalanga province.
Police and government officials raided the church-run facility on Thursday, October 15, uncovering what authorities described as appalling living conditions.
According to local media reports, some residents were allegedly chained together, while others had untreated sores. Inspectors also found overcrowded sleeping quarters, broken toilets and no running water.
The centre was reportedly operating without the required authorisation and had exceeded its declared capacity. Authorities said the couple had indicated that the facility could accommodate 60 people, but more than 200 residents were found during the inspection.
At least 30 women were among those discovered at the centre. An 11-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl were also reportedly staying alongside adults.
The Department of Social Development said residents were paying 3,000 rand (about US$182) monthly, with nearly half of the money reportedly going to the church.
Following the operation, 14 people were taken to hospital for medical treatment, while 132 others were returned to their families.
The pastor and his wife are expected to appear in court on Monday as investigations continue into possible additional offences.
The arrests have renewed concerns about unregistered rehabilitation facilities operating in South Africa, where authorities are grappling with growing demand for drug addiction treatment.
In 2025, the Department of Social Development identified more than 100 illegal rehabilitation centres nationwide, with Gauteng, home to Johannesburg, recording the highest concentration.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the operation of the Mpumalanga facility and the treatment of its residents.
