Cape Town – The Department of Correctional Services has confirmed that numerous security violations enabled the 2022 escape of convict Thabo Bester from the Mangaung Correctional Centre.
Following a comprehensive inspection by Minister of Correctional Services Pieter Groenewald, on Monday, the department highlighted significant flaws in the facility’s operations and employee involvement in the notorious escape.
“This inspection included the area from which the decoy body was removed and the cell where the fire incident occurred. This assessment again shows that numerous security violations transpired, confirming that this escape was meticulously planned.
“Notably, the system has been significantly manipulated, with several employees implicated in the escape. Of those individuals, several officials have been charged as co-accused. Numerous security system upgrades were presented to the Minister,” the Department of Correctional Services said.
As part of the effort to improve security, multiple system upgrades have been implemented and presented to the minister during his visit.
Groenewald also inspected the Grootvlei Correctional Centre, where he observed the potential for expanding agricultural activities, including the development of a new chicken abattoir capable of processing 500 chickens per hour.
However, he expressed dissatisfaction with construction delays and plans to address the issue with Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson.
The department reiterated its commitment to improving security and addressing internal issues to prevent future breaches.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: X/@BafanaSurprise
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
