The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has expressed outrage over a video circulating on social media, where an inmate is seen boasting about the amenities and comfort he enjoys in prison.
The video has sparked widespread criticism and raised questions about prison conditions. In the video, an inmate identified as Bornface Banks, a Zimbabwean national remanded at Goodwood Correctional Centre for kidnapping allegations, is seen wearing yellow prison gear and surrounded by other inmates.
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He mocks those who thought he would suffer in prison, claiming that he is thriving instead. Banks lists various benefits he enjoys, such as free toiletries, three meals a day, and free education.
He even laughs and waves at the camera, saying, “Hello haters, you put us in prison and think that we are suffering? No, my brother, we are doing extremely fine.
“Look at how happy we are. This morning we had breakfast, and in the afternoon we had lunch. We are about to have dinner. We are happy. Look here we are not paying rent. We are not buying electricity. Nothing my brother, we don’t even cook food they give us for free.”
He then bursts out laughing while other inmates join in the laughter.
Soft life in SA prison??🤔🤔 pic.twitter.com/8fQpB7tK0S
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) July 15, 2024
Singabakho Nxumalo, spokesperson for the DCS, confirmed the identity of the inmate and stated that the department is deeply incensed by this behaviour.
A search was conducted, and the cellphone used to record the video was confiscated. Nxumalo emphasized that mobile phones are considered contraband in correctional facilities, and their illegal access and usage are punishable offences.
“There is no soft life in prison,” Nxumalo added, highlighting the strict measures in place to prevent such occurrences.
The video has not only brought to light the unauthorized possession of mobile phones by inmates but also raised concerns about the perception of prison life.
The DCS has assured the public that strong actions will be taken against those responsible for this breach. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to regulations within correctional facilities to maintain order and discipline.