The Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) says it will continue enforcing the decision to suspend traditional initiation during the winter season in line with Covid 19 regulations.
This follows the closure of 24 initiation schools in several parts of the province as well as ten arrests for unlawful circumcisions.
The tradition was suspended by the Executive Council for the entire winter season to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
COGTA MEC Xolile Nqatha said the affected areas include Ngqeleni, King Sabata Dalindyebo, Port St Johns, Tsolo, Mdantsane, Scenery Park, Nxarhuni and Indwe.
Nqatha said 16 cases are currently under investigation.
The Eastern Cape House of traditional leaders has also called on parents and families to observe the lockdown regulations by not sending their kids to the bush.
Parents are also urged to open criminal cases against those who do circumcise boys without consent.
