'These boys are dying'

Cape Town - An Eastern Cape boy has died after complications following a botched circumcision in Port St Johns, bringing the death toll to seven since the start of the initiation season two weeks ago.

Eastern Cape health department spokesperson, Sizwe Kupelo, said the boy died on Monday due to complications after the procedure.

Another boy, from Ngqeleni near Mthatha, faces possible amputation.

"These boys are dying but are not supposed to die," said Kupelo, urging the community not to wait until the eleventh hour before reporting suspicious practices.

He said seven illegal surgeons have been arrested. Two were released due to a technicality, but could possibly be recharged.

One of the two was being sought in connection with the death of the Port St Johns boy, said Kupelo.