Pubdate: Wed, 09 Jun 2004
Source: Cape Argus (South Africa)
Copyright: 2004 Cape Argus.
Contact:  http://capeargus.co.za/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2939
Author: Sheena Adams
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)

DRUG CENTRE UNDER SPOTLIGHT

For the first time a government-appointed team of experts will be allowed 
behind the high walls of the Noupoort Christian Care Centre to see at 
first-hand how drug-addicted teenagers are treated.

Social development minister Zola Skweyiya says a hand-picked team will 
spend three days at the Northern Cape institution next week, speaking to 
staff members and deciding whether the centre should be allowed permanent 
registration.

The controversial facility run by Pastor Sophocles Nissiotis has been 
accused of torturing teenagers sent to the centre for drug and alcohol 
rehabilitation. There have been allegations of boys being scrubbed with 
steel wool, of patients having their antidepressants confiscated and of 
teenagers trying to escape the centre and hitch-hiking home.

There were also reports of two teenagers being chained to a truck overnight 
in below-freezing temperatures while one of the teachers at the centre 
poured icy water over them. An employee of the centre, who has since been 
suspended, pleaded guilty and was convicted on two counts of assault with 
intent to do grievous bodily harm.

Skweyiya's team includes drug rehabilitation experts from organisations 
including the Human Rights Commission, the Central Drug Authority and the 
Eli Clinic.

Ministry spokesman Mbulelo Musi said the team was scheduled to visit the 
centre on June 16, 17 and 18.
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