Zuko Komisa

- A major search at Pollsmoor prison uncovered drugs, weapons, and phones.
- Over 800 inmates were searched in the operation.
- The raid underlines ongoing efforts to combat prison contraband.
A significant haul of illegal items, including drugs, sharp objects, and cash, has been confiscated during a large-scale search operation at Pollsmoor Correctional Facility in the Western Cape. The targeted raid, conducted on Wednesday evening, focused on the facility’s Remand Section and the kitchen area where sentenced offenders were working.
Over 800 inmates were searched in the carefully coordinated intervention, aimed at rooting out contraband and restoring order within the prison. The sweep was led by National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale, highlighting the persistent challenge of illicit activities in correctional centres.
Among the vast array of items seized were:
- 119 cellphones and numerous chargers/batteries
- 81 sharp objects
- Significant quantities of dagga (cannabis), mandrax tablets, and Tik (crystal meth)
- R363.60 in cash
[NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES LEADS A HIGH-IMPACT SEARCH OPERATION AT POLLSMOOR CORRECTIONAL FACILITY]
— Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (@CrimeWatch_RSA) July 17, 2025
In a continued effort to ensure safe and secure correctional facilities, the National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi… pic.twitter.com/OPWfK8teN6
The successful operation involved a combined force of 124 Emergency Support Team (EST) members from Correctional Services, supported by 23 officials from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and seven Metro Police officers.
The Department of Correctional Services lauded the collaborative effort, underscoring its commitment to working with law enforcement to combat smuggling within prisons.
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