The recent prison transfer of notorious gangster George “Geweld” Thomas has sparked concern among Cape Flats residents.
The community fears that Thomas’ move from the Kokstad Maximum Prison in KwaZulu-Natal to Helderstroom Maximum Security Prison in Caledon may lead to an escalation of violence in the region.
Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald has taken action in response to community complaints, labelling the transfer as irregular. The department has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the transfer.
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Ministerial spokesperson Eune Oelofsen has indicated that Thomas has since been relocated to another undisclosed maximum-security facility to mitigate the risk of increased gang violence.
During an engagement with the Cape Crime Crisis Coalition, local leaders expressed their worries about George “Geweld” Thomas’ proximity to gang-ravaged neighbourhoods.
As the leader of the feared 28s prison gang, Thomas had previously been sentenced to 175 years in prison by the Western Cape High Court in 2015. His crimes include seven murders, attempted murders, housebreaking, gang involvement, theft, racketeering, and conspiracy to commit more crimes.
The Department of Correctional Services faces the challenge of ensuring both the safety of the community and compliance with legal protocols regarding prison transfers.
The authorities have yet to disclose the new location of Thomas, a measure deemed necessary to avoid further unrest. Meanwhile, community members remain vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution that ensures their safety.
