Prison Social Worker Busted For Smuggling 17 Phones And Dagga Into Voorberg

A correctional services social worker tasked with rehabilitating offenders has been arrested for allegedly smuggling 17 cellphones and dagga into Voorberg Correctional Centre.

According to reports, Aldean Le Roux — identified in court papers — was subjected to a routine security search while entering the facility on 21 February. During the inspection, officials allegedly discovered a stash of prohibited items, including multiple cellphones and dagga.

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Social Worker Arrest Confirmed

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed the incident and said the matter was reported to South African Police Service (SAPS).

DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said: “The Department can further confirm that internal disciplinary processes will be instituted in line with applicable prescripts. DCS maintains a zero-tolerance stance on the smuggling of contraband within correctional facilities.

“The detection and apprehension of the official demonstrates the effectiveness of existing security measures, including the searching of both inmates and officials.”

Police spokesperson Thembakazi Mpendukana confirmed that the 47-year-old social worker was arrested at the facility.

She appeared at the Porterville Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 23 February. The case was postponed to 2 March 2026, and she remains in custody.

DA Slams ‘Collapse’ in Correctional System

The Democratic Alliance (DA) described the arrest as deeply troubling and symptomatic of broader systemic issues.

In a statement, the party said: “A social worker in Correctional Services is supposed to be at the forefront of rehabilitation, guiding offenders away from criminal networks and helping to break the cycle of crime.

“Instead, the very official entrusted with this responsibility is alleged to have enabled the very criminal activity she was meant to prevent.”

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The DA is now calling for independent lifestyle audits of Correctional Services officials, particularly those in high-trust and high-access roles.

“These audits must be conducted by an external and independent body to identify unexplained wealth, criminal associations, and vulnerabilities to corruption.”

The arrest has reignited debate about corruption within correctional facilities and the smuggling of contraband — particularly cellphones, which are often linked to continued criminal activity from behind bars.

With internal disciplinary processes now underway and the criminal case pending, the spotlight remains firmly on accountability within South Africa’s correctional system.