Cape Town – Correctional Services officials on Thursday conducted a surprise raid at Mangaung Correctional Centre (MCC), previously housing infamous Facebook rapist Thabo Bester.
This was part of the festive season security initiative, Operation Vala.
National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale led the search, scrutinising cells for contraband, including hidden items in mattresses and light fixtures.
@NqobileMadlala_ #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/2leqAFTBHr
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) November 28, 2024
“We are part of the Justice Crime Prevention and Security cluster. We have our own brief of ensuring that in correctional settings, security is heightened, the officials and offenders are safe,” said Thobakgale.
The raid followed heightened scrutiny on MCC after Bester’s 2022 escape, where he faked his death with alleged help from celebrity doctor Nandipha Magudumana and prison staff.
Bester and Magudumana were arrested in 2023 and await trial.
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) faces criticism for delays in addressing the escape, with the Public Protector identifying lapses.
In a clear statement of intent, the National Commissioner of DCS, Makgothi Thobakgale is tonight (28 November 2024) leading a search operation at Mangaung Correctional Centre.He indicated that this operation is the first of many that will be rolled out during the festive season. pic.twitter.com/aDEUqZjLwm
— The Department Correctional Services 🇿🇦 (@DCS_ZA) November 28, 2024
G4S, which manages MCC, received notice of contract cancellation, while disciplinary action has been taken against implicated officials. The case remains sub judice.
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Picture: X/@DCS_ZA
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
