THE Ministry of Social Development has announced the death of another inmate at the Noupoort Christian rehabilitiation unit for drug and alcohol addicts. The latest death was that of a 15-year-old, Theo Hurley. Social Development Minister Zola Skweyiya has ordered an urgent investigation into the death, the second in two months at the centre which appears to use “tough love” army boot camp style measures in dealing with inmates. Following the May death of Logan Klingenberg, the centre was given until August 2001 by the ministry to ensure that it is operating in conformance with all legal and professional standards required for such centres. Noupoort is located between Colesberg and Middelburg on the main route between Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth, and regards itself as one of the best rehab units in the southern hemisphere.
Boy dies in chains at Christian boot camp May 17 2001