An altercation between old and new awaiting trial prisoners at Westville Prison in Durban resulted in the injury of 14 inmates. The incident is currently under investigation by the Correctional Services Department.
DCS National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale provided further details, explaining that the prisoners broke a window and then used broken glass to stab each other.
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Fortunately, there were no fatalities, and all of the injured inmates have received medical treatment and are back in the facility.
Thobakgale emphasised the need to address the root cause of such incidents, particularly as the offenders involved are remanded. He also highlighted the role of families and friends in exacerbating the situation by bringing contraband, including weapons, during visits.
According to Thobakgale, one of the identified risks is that when offenders interact with their family members and friends during court appearances, they acquire weapons that are subsequently brought into the correctional facilities.
To mitigate this, efforts are being made to prevent the introduction of contraband and encourage peaceful and stable environments during visits.
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“It is crucial for families and friends of inmates to understand the potential dangers associated with providing contraband, as it not only puts the lives of the inmates at risk but also compromises the overall safety and security of the correctional facilities.
“The Correctional Services Department remains committed to investigating and addressing incidents like these to ensure the well-being and security of all inmates,” said Thobakgale.
