A religious leader and his spouse have been detained in South Africa following the discovery of approximately 200 individuals, including some shackled together, at an alleged unauthorised drug rehabilitation facility in Mpumalanga province.
The centre, which operated within a church building, was uncovered during an inspection conducted by local authorities on Thursday.
Officials reported disturbing living conditions, with several occupants suffering from widespread skin wounds while others were reportedly chained to one another.
The couple responsible for managing the establishment have been charged with kidnapping, although investigators say additional offences may be considered.
Neither suspect has publicly responded to the allegations.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of unlicensed rehabilitation institutions across South Africa, where substance abuse remains a significant challenge.
In 2025, the Department of Social Development disclosed that more than 100 illegal treatment centres had been identified nationwide, with the majority located in Gauteng province.
According to the department, some of the individuals rescued from the Mpumalanga facility originated from that region.
Although the operators claimed to accommodate only 60 people, investigators discovered a much larger population, comprising 30 women and two minors among the occupants.
Most of those detained at the premises were believed to be struggling with drug addiction.
They were reportedly confined in overcrowded rooms without adequate sanitation facilities or access to running water.
Authorities also indicated that some individuals had remained at the establishment for an extended period.
Investigations further revealed that residents were charged 3,000 rand monthly, equivalent to approximately $182, to cover their stay.
Nearly half of the collected fees reportedly went towards the church.
Police confirmed that 14 people rescued from the premises had been transferred to hospital for additional medical care.
The accused couple is scheduled to appear before a local court on Monday as proceedings begin.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong