Cape Town — The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has condemned the arson case at the Boksburg Correctional Facility, where inmates allegedly started the fire to prevent officials from confiscating a cell phone.
DCS National Commissioner, Makgothi Thabokgale, confirmed that the incident took place last week and no inmates sustained any injuries. All inmates were also tested for any smoke inhalation.
He said the department would not tolerate any form of disrespectful or dangerous behaviour within the facilities that prevents officials from doing their job, a statement read.
“Such inconsiderate and disrespectful behaviour will never be acceptable or tolerated. The department is closely examining the matter to ensure all culprits are brought to justice. Searching and seizure are part of the procedures conducted routinely to ensure the safety of all inmates and officials, he said.
Thabokgale confirmed the culprits were identified and a case of arson and malicious damage to to state property has been registered with the South African Police Services (SAPS). The DCS will also conduct an investigation and all offenders will be charged internally.
“Correctional Services has a set of operational procedures and will not accept unruly behaviour within its facilities. Unruly behaviour will be dealt with as per the Correctional Services Act,” he concluded.
The DCS has been kept busy as it conducted multiple raids across South African prisons. The Goodwood Correctional Facility in Cape Town, the Sun City Prison in Johannesburg and the Westville Correctional Facility in Durban were among the penitentiaries that have been raided.
The purpose of the raids was to confiscate illegal contraband smuggled into the prison, and the DCS said any officials or wardens found guilty of encouraging these illegal acts, will be dealt with accordingly.
— The Department Correctional Services 🇿🇦 (@DCS_ZA) August 2, 2024
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
