Traditional Nurse Granted Bail After Initiates Left Unattended in Cradock

A traditional nurse accused of serious negligence during an initiation process has been released on bail following his appearance in the Nxuba Magistrate’s Court.

Arrest Follows Alleged Neglect of Initiates

Kwanele Pikoko (48) was arrested by Nxuba police on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, at around midday. His arrest followed allegations that he contravened the Customary Initiation Act 2 of 2021, read together with Act 5 of 2016.

According to police information, Pikoko allegedly left two initiates unattended for a period of two days, raising serious concerns about their safety and wellbeing during the initiation process.

Alleged Alcohol Use Raises Further Concerns

Police further allege that when Pikoko returned to the initiation site on 16 December, he was under the influence of alcohol. The matter was reported to authorities, prompting immediate intervention by the South African Police Service.

Preliminary investigations were conducted, after which Pikoko was arrested for failing to properly care for the initiates entrusted to him.

Court Appearance and Bail Granted

Pikoko appeared before the Nxuba Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 17 December 2025. After considering the matter, the court granted him bail.

He is expected to return to court for his next appearance on 26 January 2026, where the case will continue.

Commissioner Condemns Negligence

The District Commissioner, Major General Rudolph Adolph, condemned the negligence by the traditional nurse as it could lead to the unnecessary loss of vulnerable souls. He believes that the arrest of the traditional nurse will send a stern warning to other traditional nurses capable of such a conduct.

Call for Compliance With the Law

The Eastern Cape SAPS has urged traditional leaders, parents, and communities to work closely with law enforcement to ensure initiation practices comply with the law and do not endanger lives.

Every year, negligence during initiation seasons leads to preventable injuries and deaths, and police say strict enforcement remains necessary to protect initiates across the province.