The Department said reports that residents at the facility in Waterval B were allegedly chained, while children were present without appropriate safeguards, raised serious concerns about the protection of vulnerable people. “People seeking help for substance-use disorders have the right to safe, professional and compassionate care,” the Department said.
“Their vulnerability must never be exploited, and no practice presented as treatment can justify abuse, neglect or violations of human dignity.”
Under the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act, operating or managing an unregistered treatment centre is prohibited.
The registration requirement applies to facilities run by private individuals, non-profit organisations and faith-based institutions.
All treatment centres must comply with standards governing the care, treatment and rehabilitation of service users.
Social Development Minister Dina Pule said the immediate priority was protecting the rights, safety and well-being of those affected, particularly children.
The Department is working with law-enforcement agencies and other government departments to address the matter.
Social workers are assessing affected residents, providing psychosocial support and coordinating referrals to appropriate services. Safe reunification with families will be supported where suitable.
Families were urged to verify the registration of treatment centres with provincial Social Development departments before admitting relatives.
Caregivers should request valid registration certificates and consult social workers about appropriate treatment options. “Advertising, personal recommendations or religious affiliation should never replace proper verification,” the Department said.
Families should remain involved throughout treatment, maintain contact with relatives and report concerns about safety or well-being.
Community members, traditional and religious leaders and organisations referring people for treatment were also urged to report suspected unregistered centres.
–ChannelAfrica–
