A 54-year-old woman from Nkowankowa, Limpopo, South Africa has been arrested after allegedly operating an illegal prison from her home yard.
The woman, who also owns a local tavern, is accused of detaining patrons and other community members without any legal authority.
According to police reports, the makeshift detention facility began operating on 2 December 2025. The woman is said to have locked up individuals who caused disturbances at her tavern, particularly those who became violent while drunk. She allegedly kept them confined until they sobered up or settled their unpaid bills.
Authorities further revealed that she detained at least 36 people, some for drinking at her tavern without paying, and others for outstanding debts.
Reports also indicate that the woman used the facility to detain men who allegedly assaulted women while drunk at her establishment.
Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
