Family demands justice after second death at KZN rehab bootcamp

A second death at a controversial rehabilitation bootcamp in KwaZulu-Natal has sparked a police investigation and raised concerns about the conditions and practices at the facility. The family of 25-year-old Unathi Makhosonke Mkhasibe, who died on July 25, is demanding answers about the circumstances of his death and how the facility responded. The incident has intensified scrutiny over the operations of the Discipline Bootcamp SA, also known as Madlokovu Bootcamp, located in Richmond. The facility is run by Lucky Mngadi, who identifies himself as King Madlokovu. Unathi Mkhasibe was admitted to the bootcamp on June 24 after his family sought help for his drug addiction, specifically to dagga and lean, a mixture of codeine- and promethazine-based cough syrup combined with a soft drink. His family paid R10,000 for the treatment, believing they were providing their son with the necessary support. However, they were shocked when they learned of his death. According to his father, Nhlanhla Mkhasibe, the family had hoped for recovery but instead faced tragedy. This is the second fatality linked to the bootcamp this year. In January, 23-year-old Mduduzi Luthuli from Danganya, uMgababa, died shortly after being admitted. His family reported receiving conflicting information about the cause of his death. A former patient had previously claimed that Luthuli had attempted to escape with others and was subjected to harsh punishments, including strenuous exercise and alleged physical abuse. He reportedly collapsed and began passing blood during these sessions, leading to his death upon arrival at the hospital. The Mkhasibe family has expressed frustration over their lack of support from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development. They reached out to MEC Mbali Shinga’s office but did not receive the assistance they needed. When they were informed of Unathi’s death, they were urged by the facility’s founder to visit immediately. Upon arriving at the bootcamp, they encountered a mortuary van and confirmed through the staff that the body inside belonged to their son. Nhlanhla Mkhasibe described the experience as deeply unsettling. He questioned the facility’s explanation that Unathi had died in the mud while exercising after attempting to escape. The family had recently spoken to the bootcamp and were allegedly denied access to see their son. They were also unaware of the supposed escape attempt until after his death. Additionally, they observed bruises on Unathi’s body, raising further questions about the treatment he endured. The Department of Social Development is now investigating whether the bootcamp is legally registered and adheres to the required standards. Police have launched an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding both deaths. The family continues to demand transparency and accountability from the facility’s management and authorities. The bootcamp has drawn criticism in recent months due to reports of severe physical and psychological treatment methods used on patients. Former residents have spoken about the intense workouts, isolation, and punitive measures employed by staff. These allegations have prompted calls for stricter oversight of private rehabilitation centers operating under the guise of helping addicts. As the investigation unfolds, the focus will remain on uncovering the truth behind the deaths and determining whether systemic failures contributed to these tragedies. The outcome could lead to legal action against the facility and potential reforms in the regulation of similar institutions nationwide. The family of Unathi Mkhasibe is determined to ensure that their son’s death does not go unnoticed and that justice is served.