Mass circumcision ceremony leaves 43 boys dead and dozens more mutilated…

At least 43 boys have died and dozens more been mutilated during South Africa’s traditional “Ulwaluko” circumcision ceremonies this year, with unskilled operators at illegal initiation schools using spears, scissors and razor blades.

According to the Daily Mail, gangrene, sepsis and dehydration are the main causes of death, though some boys have been stabbed, drowned or beaten.

Minister of Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa condemned illegal schools as criminal enterprises, saying authorities have shut 42 camps, made 40 arrests and rescued 180 boys as officials pledge to work toward zero deaths.